Large fan support after Lynx shirt controversy, dispute 'resolved'

MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) - Minnesota Lynx is expecting a large wave of fan support at Friday night’s home game after recent controversy.

This is the first game back since tensions rose during last Saturday’s home game when four off-duty Minneapolis Police officers working the game walked out in response to the team’s pregame shirts. Lynx players chose to wear t-shirts that said “Black Lives Matter” had the Dallas Police Department logo and the names of Alton Sterling and Philando Castille on them.

Lt. Bob Kroll, the president of the Minneapolis Police union says Friday’s game will be fully staffed.

“We’ve resolved everything and we’re moving forward,” said Kroll.

A Lynx official said they were selling standing room only tickets for Friday night’s game against the New York Liberty. The game was expected to sell out. The final attendance was 8,123, which is just below the average attendance of 8,249.

Players say despite the recent controversy, the team is staying focused.

“Team’s feeling good. We’re focused thanks to our captains, we have our good coaches that we have, they make sure we stay a straight path and not lose sight of what we’re here for,” said Sylvia Fowles.

“Our fans are going to do what they’ve always done,” said Jia Perkins. “They’ve supported us. We have some of the best fans in the league and so we expect them to support us like they’ve always done.”