NBA Postpones Warriors-Timberwolves Game After Fatal Shooting in Minneapolis

The NBA postponed its Saturday game between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Golden State Warriors at Target Center in Minneapolis after federal agents shot and killed a 37-year-old local man early that morning. The league made the call due to safety concerns in the area, where protests have picked up following the shooting near Nicollet Avenue and 26th Street.

Background

Minneapolis has seen tension build over the past month from clashes involving federal immigration agents. This marks the second fatal shooting of a city resident in that time. Just weeks ago, on January 9, a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent killed 37-year-old Renee Good in south Minneapolis. That event led to weeks of protests, including a big march through downtown on Friday that passed right by Target Center and the Warriors' team hotel.

Federal agents have been carrying out an ongoing operation in the city, which has drawn crowds out into the streets even in subzero cold. Thousands turned up for Friday's rally, calling for the operation to end. The latest shooting happened about two miles south of the arena, around 9:15 a.m., and quickly sparked more demonstrations. Police and federal officials say the man had a gun and two magazines on him. He was a lawful gun owner with a permit to carry, according to city police.

The man lived in Minneapolis and was an American citizen. Federal sources describe the shooter as an eight-year Border Patrol veteran. Details on what led to the confrontation remain limited, but it fits a pattern of incidents this month—now the third shooting and second death tied to federal agents here.

Key Details

The NBA announced the postponement shortly after the shooting, stating it was to put the safety of the Minneapolis community first. The game, originally set to tip off at Target Center, will now happen Sunday at 5:30 p.m. The teams are also due to play again Monday night at the same spot, meaning back-to-back games over the weekend.

Incident Timeline

• 9:15 a.m. Saturday: Shooting occurs near Nicollet Avenue and 26th Street.
• Morning hours: Protests start near the scene.
• Afternoon: NBA confirms postponement.
• Evening: No further major clashes reported, but crowds linger.

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara spoke to reporters about the event. He confirmed the victim's age and local ties but held back on his name pending family notice. O'Hara noted the man's legal gun status and said investigators are piecing together the full story.

"The decision was made to prioritize the safety and security of the Minneapolis community," the NBA said in its statement.

The Warriors had traveled to town for the matchup, part of a key stretch in their schedule. Timberwolves players and staff were at home base. No one from either side was hurt in the unrest, and the arena stayed calm. Saturday's game was slated for ABC broadcast; the makeup will air on NBA TV.

This is not the first time the NBA has paused play over social issues. Back in 2020, playoff games in Florida's bubble stopped after players boycotted over the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Wisconsin. Those games restarted after three days.

What This Means

The rescheduling sets up a busy weekend for both teams at Target Center. Warriors and Timberwolves players now face games on Sunday and Monday, which could test their legs after the delay. Fans with Saturday tickets can use them for either makeup date, per league rules. Ticket sales for the new slots are already moving as word spreads.

Protests continue to shape the city's mood. Demonstrators gathered again Saturday evening, voicing anger over federal presence. Some marched toward downtown, staying peaceful but vocal. City leaders are watching closely, balancing public order with event hosting. The NBA's move sends a signal that community stability comes before the schedule.

For the league, this highlights risks of playing in areas with unrest. Target Center sits in a lively downtown spot, close to protest routes. Security will ramp up for the coming games, with extra police and barriers likely. Players from both sides have spoken in the past about social justice, and this could spark team statements or actions.

The Timberwolves organization has deep roots in Minneapolis. Owner Glen Taylor and team execs often engage locally. Warriors stars like Stephen Curry have used their platform on big issues before. No official comments from teams yet, but eyes will be on their responses.

Federal operations roll on despite the backlash. Department of Homeland Security has not detailed plans to pull back. More encounters could happen, keeping tension high. For now, the city holds its breath as Sunday's game nears. Basketball takes a backseat to real-life fallout, but the court calls soon enough.

Police urge calm and say investigations into both shootings are active. Autopsy results and witness accounts will fill in gaps over days ahead. Minneapolis residents watch federal moves warily, with sports events now tangled in the mix.