MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Timberwolves donned black shirts that read “Stand With Minnesota” during their pregame warmups before tipping off against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday night.

The shirts were a nod to the strife in the Twin Cities over the last month during the federal government’s increased immigration enforcement. Two American citizens have been shot and killed in Minneapolis by federal agents, sparking massive protests and a bitter feud between local and federal government officials.

As soon as the Timberwolves took the court for the nationally televised game, the team issued a statement on behalf of all of its players.

“We, the Minnesota Timberwolves players, extend our sincere sympathies and love to everyone across the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota who has been affected by the recent tragic events impacting our communities. Minnesota is strongest when we uplift and support one another, and there is no room for hatred or division across our great state or among all who live here.

“We mourn the lives lost and send strength, peace and compassion to all who are hurting. We believe in the resilience, unity and care that define Minnesotans, and bring our communities together in times of hardship and need.”

Timberwolves come out for pregame warmups wearing “Stand with Minnesota” shirts pic.twitter.com/RnIpUZYIgP

— Jon Krawczynski (@JonKrawczynski) January 30, 2026

The Timberwolves have held two moments of silence before games this month, one to honor Renee Good, who was killed on Jan. 7 and the other for Alex Pretti, whose death on Saturday also prompted the league to postpone the Wolves’ game against Golden State.

Several players expressed their remorse after a loss to the Warriors on Sunday, but this was their first collective effort toward making their voices heard.

“We’re just having our city’s back,” said Jaden McDaniels, who scored 21 points in Minnesota’s 123-111 win. “The stuff we’re going through right now, it’s hard for everyone, not just the people outside. Making sure we can show our support in any way.”