WNBA All-Star Breanna Stewart became one of the most visible voices in a growing wave of athlete activism after publicly condemning U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. During player introductions at an Unrivaled 3-on-3 game in Miami on Sunday, Jan. 25, Stewart held up a sign reading “ABOLISH ICE,” drawing national attention to her stance. Stewart, a co-founder of the Unrivaled league, has personal ties to the issue, as her wife, Marta, is an immigrant and a U.S. green card holder. �
The Guardian
Stewart’s protest followed the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old registered nurse who was killed by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis. His death occurred just weeks after another fatal shooting in the city, when Renee Good was killed by an ICE agent earlier in January. In response to the tragedy, Unrivaled held a moment of silence before games, expressing solidarity with the victims and their families and acknowledging the broader impact of the events on affected communities. �
The Guardian +1
The killings have sparked outrage across Minnesota and beyond, triggering protests and renewed scrutiny of federal immigration enforcement. Minneapolis has remained on edge as demonstrators demand accountability and transparency, arguing that the incidents reflect deeper systemic issues. Video footage and eyewitness accounts surrounding Pretti’s death have fueled public anger, with many questioning official explanations offered by federal authorities. �
The Guardian +1
Other prominent athletes have also spoken out. Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton stated bluntly on social media that “Alex Pretti was murdered,” while former WNBA player Brianna Turner criticized those defending ICE, calling their position morally indefensible. Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese added her voice as well, posting that she was praying for the country as tensions escalated nationwide. �
The Guardian
The WNBA’s involvement in social justice advocacy is not new. The league and its players have a long history of using their platform to address racial inequality and systemic injustice, most notably after the 2020 killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. From wearing “Black Lives Matter” apparel in the WNBA bubble to openly campaigning against political figures they viewed as opposing racial justice efforts, players have consistently positioned the league as a leader in athlete-led activism—a legacy that continues to shape its response to current events. �
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