Dallas Wings rookie Paige Bueckers recently addressed the devastating school shooting in Minnesota, where two children lost their lives and an additional 17 were injured during a morning Mass at Annunciation Catholic School.

“I’ve been sending prayers … It’s just really unfortunate,” Bueckers expressed. “I hope there are stricter gun laws put in place so parents don’t have to worry about sending their kids to school, people don’t have to worry about attending church and all these places are safe. It’s just really unfortunate that gun violence continues to be an issue.”

Before her success at UConn, Bueckers graduated from Hopkins High School located in Minnetonka, a suburb of Minneapolis.

The Minnesota Lynx and Timberwolves issued a statement that resonated with Bueckers’ sentiments, emphasizing, “No child should ever feel unsafe in a place of learning or worship, and no family should endure such unimaginable loss.”

Additionally, Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve referred to the events as “sickening,” highlighting the glaring lack of respect for life in society. “It’s sad for the kids that have to grow up like this … Our hearts go out to everyone affected,” she stated.

Meanwhile, the Minnesota Vikings condemned the shooting as a “senseless and cowardly act,” expressing their heartbreak for the victims and their families.

“Our hearts are broken for the victims, their families and all who have been impacted by this senseless and cowardly act.”

As a response to the tragedy, the Toronto Blue Jays held a moment of silence before their game against the Minnesota Twins, showcasing their solidarity beyond the sport. “This is bigger than baseball,” the Twins remarked as they shared their gratitude on social media.