Minnesota sports figure Napheesa Collier spoke out on Saturday following the tragic shooting of two Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party lawmakers near Minneapolis, where both were fatally shot by an individual impersonating law enforcement. Collier’s statement on Minnesota shootings highlighted the deep fear and concern surrounding the incident.
House Speaker Emeritus Melissa Hortman and her husband were killed early Saturday morning. The accused gunman, Vance Boelter, has been identified by authorities.
Collier Reflects on the Current Climate and Personal Fears
Just after leading the Minnesota Lynx to a 101-78 victory over the LA Sparks with 32 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, Collier expressed somber thoughts on the state of the country. She described the moment as frightening and unsettling.
“It’s a scary time that we’re living in. Honestly, like the things that are going on in our country… taking democracy away from the land of the free — that is supposed to be our slogan,” she said. —Napheesa Collier
As a mother, Collier feels an intensified worry about the environment her daughter will grow up in, fearing a loss of rights compared to previous generations.
“It’s really scary, especially to raise a kid in an environment like this, where she has less rights than I had growing up, less rights than the people before us. And it’s continuing to go down,” she stated. —Napheesa Collier
“You know, this is not politics. This is real, like this is life and morality and human rights, reproductive rights, women’s rights. This is not politics. So I think it’s really important to stand up for and fight against these things.” —Napheesa Collier
Lynx Coach Describes Shooting as ‘Sickening’
Before the game, Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve called the shootings “sickening,” noting that the joy of basketball felt hollow in light of the tragedy.
“(The game) seems pretty meaningless, certainly, hitting this close to home,” Reeve told ESPN. “Today’s a tough day all around. Basketball is what we do. We’ll go out there and do what we do. But God knows what, when our game is over, God knows what we’re going to come off the court and learn what’s happening. It’s sickening.” —Cheryl Reeve
Minnesota Sports Teams Unite in Mourning and Solidarity
Other Minnesota professional teams also expressed grief and unity following the shootings. Both the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx released a joint statement expressing sorrow for the victims’ families and reaffirming their dedication to safety in the community.
“We stand in solidarity with all who are affected, and we reaffirm our commitment to fostering a community of unity, mutual respect and peace — where public servants can do their vital work safely and without fear.” —Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx
The Minnesota Twins also voiced their condemnation of these violent acts, standing alongside their fellow Minnesotans against the senseless loss of life.
“We stand with all Minnesotans in condemning these senseless acts of violence.” —Minnesota Twins
Implications and Continuing Concerns for Minnesota’s Future
The shooting of two prominent lawmakers close to Minneapolis has sent shockwaves through the community, underscoring ongoing concerns about violence and safety in the state. Napheesa Collier’s statement on Minnesota shootings captures the anxiety shared by many, especially parents worried about the rights and security of future generations. As the investigation into the incident continues, local sports teams and public figures remain united in calls for peace and protection for those serving the community, emphasizing the importance of standing firm against threats to democracy and human rights.