Multiple professional sports leagues postponed games in Minneapolis that were scheduled to occur Monday evening amid rising tensions over the death of a Black man, Daunte Wright, during a police traffic stop.
The NBA, NHL and MLB all opted to not play games in the city on Monday as protests were expected to continue in Brooklyn Center, a suburb bordering Minneapolis to the northwest.
Statements from the NHL and Minnesota Twins both indicated that the decisions were made “out of respect” for the Minnesota community, which is also grappling with the ongoing trial of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin over the death of George Floyd, another Black man killed in the state last summer.
“Yesterday’s tragic event, involving the life of Daunte Wright, once again leaves our community mourning. After consultation with the League, and local and state officials, we believe postponing tonight’s game versus the Brooklyn Nets is the best decision,” said a spokesperson for the Minnesota Timberwolves.
“Out of respect for the tragic events that occurred yesterday in Brooklyn Center, and following the additional details in this evolving situation, the Minnesota Twins have decided it is in the best interests of our fans, staff, players and community to not play today’s game,” the Minnesota Twins said in a statement provided to The Hill.
The teams all extended sympathy to the family and friends of Wright.
Wright died Sunday after being pulled over during a traffic stop. Brooklyn Center Police Chief Tim Gannon said Monday at a press conference that he believed the officer who shot Wright mistakenly pulled out her firearm instead of a Taser, resulting in what he called an “accidental discharge.”