Monday’s game between the Brooklyn Nets and host Minnesota Timberwolves was postponed due to civil unrest in the Minneapolis area, the NBA announced.
On Sunday, Daunte Wright, a 20-year-old Black man, was fatally shot by a police officer during a traffic stop in suburban Brooklyn Center. The death prompted violent protests on Sunday and into Monday.
“The National Basketball Association announced today that in light of the tragic events in the Minneapolis area yesterday, tonight’s game between the Brooklyn Nets and the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center has been postponed,” the league said in a statement. “The decision to postpone was made by the NBA after consultation with the Timberwolves organization and local and state officials.
“Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Daunte Wright during this difficult time.”
The contest was slated to serve as the second contest of a four-game homestand for the Timberwolves.
ESPN reported the game could be played on Tuesday in Minneapolis. The Nets are scheduled to visit the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday, while the Timberwolves will host the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday.
An MLB game between the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins also was postponed Monday night. The NHL’s Minnesota Wild also postponed their game against the St. Louis Blues in Saint Paul.
The tragedy involving Wright occurred as the trial of former Minneapolis police office Derek Chauvin continues in Minneapolis. Chauvin, who is white, is being tried for last May’s death of George Floyd, a Black man.
Brooklyn Center police chief Tim Gannon said the shooting of Wright was “accidental,” and that the female officer meant to use a Taser and not her handgun.
–Field Level Media