NBA's Anthony Edwards Blasted Over 'Pathetic' Response To Unrest In Minneapolis After ICE Shooting

NBA All-Star Anthony Edwards is under fire from fans over his "pathetic" response and seemingly impervious demeanor regarding the second deadly shooting by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minneapolis. On Sunday, January 25, the Minnesota Timberwolves star spoke with reporters about the unrest in the Twin Cities, saying that while he wasn't too aware of what had been going on because he's off social media, he would stand with Minneapolis community members through it all.

Anthony Edwards' comments arrived a day after news broke that ICE agents shot and killed Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old American citizen, during an immigration operation in Minneapolis. DHS and Republican leaders have spoken out about the shooting, claiming Pretti was shot after approaching law enforcement officers with a firearm. However, video and eye-witness accounts seem to refute that sentiment, sparking outrage and widespread condemnation from public figures and everyday citizens.

Anthony Edwards' statement is just one of many released by NBA standouts. Prior to his comments with reporters, Indiana Pacers star and Olympic gold medalist Tyrese Haliburton broke his silence on the matter, calling Pretti's unfortunate death "murder."

There's been collective indignation on social media and in the streets of Minneapolis following the second deadly shooting involving ICE agents. Speaking with reporters after the Timberwolves' matchup against the Golden State Warriors, Edwards sent a message to his fellow Minnesotans.

"Man I just love Minnesota, all the love and support they show me, so I’m behind them," he said. "I’m behind whatever they with."

Elaborating, Edwards explained that while he's heard about "the stuff going on," he admitted he wasn't "in tune" with everything because he's off social media.

"Me and my family are definitely praying for everyone," he added.

His response sparked strong reactions from social media users and NBA fans, who blasted the Olympian for what they saw as a lackluster answer.

"Most athletes don't care about real life stuff," a user wrote on X. "They live in a different type of bubble and they are advised to stay neutral to protect that bag."

"Y'all don't wanna know his real answer cause he [will] say he [doesn't give a f-ck]," another user posted.

A third user chimed in, saying Edwards should be "more aware" of issues in his city, while another argued that his response shows the athlete simply "does not care."

Someone else called the Timberwolves star's response "pathetic," implying they expected more from one of the community's biggest names.

Pretti was shot and killed by ICE agents on Saturday, January 24, 2026, according to CBS News. Federal agents claimed that Pretti, a nurse for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, was carrying a firearm when he approached law enforcement. Videos and witness accounts, however, indicate that Pretti had a phone in one hand and the other was empty.

Pretti became involved in a scuffle with ICE agents after stepping in between an altercation between an agent and another resident. Shortly after, Pretti was sprayed in the face with a substance before being tackled to the ground and later shot.

Pretti's family and democratic leaders in Minneapolis, including Governor Tim Walz, have denied ICE's claims that Pretti brandished a gun. In a personal statement, Pretti's family called the 37-year-old a "kindhearted soul, " adding that he only ever wanted to stand up for what was right. "Please get the truth out about our son. He was a good man," the statement finished.

Barack and Michelle Obama released statements following Pretti's death, calling the unfathomable event a "heartbreaking tragedy" that should be a "wake-up call to every American," Republican or Democrat.

In their joint statement, the former President and First Lady of the United States acknowledged the challenging job that ICE agents face. "But Americans expect them to carry out their duties in a lawful, accountable way, and to work with, rather than against, state and local officials to ensure public safety," the statement continued.

According to Barack and Michelle, federal law enforcement and immigration agents in Minneapolis aren't performing their jobs properly. The Obamas condemned the "masked ICE recruits" wreaking havoc on the people of Minnesota, slamming them for "engaging in tactics that seem designed to intimidate, harass, provoke, and endanger ... residents."

Furthermore, the Obamas blasted the Trump administration for seeming "eager" to resort to violence and aggressive tactics rather than finding a middle ground.

"This has to stop," the pair continued, praising the protesters in Minnesota and around the country for using their voice to shed light on injustice and hold the government accountable.