NBA veteran Tristan Thompson voiced support for President Donald Trump’s hardline immigration stance and crackdown on illegal immigration.
“What President [Donald] Trump is doing, first of all, I love what he’s done so far for our country,” Thompson said in a preview for an upcoming episode of “The Katie Miller Podcast.” “I think he’s helped our country a lot.”
He added, “In terms of where he stands with [immigration], I think…I’m a firm believer because I have family members and I have people that are immigrants. I believe for those that do the thing the right way and get the papers, I think they should be taken care of first and foremost. I think that’s the right thing. I think that’s the right way of going about it.”
READ: Trump administration tightens green card process for travel ban countries (November 21, 2025)
As per Fox News, Thompson, a free agent who most recently played with the Cleveland Cavaliers, empathized with several people he described as being “in-between states” of getting their legal papers, describing a more “nuanced” position on immigration.
“I think it should be case by case on the right people. I understand where he’s coming from, but for me, it varies depending on who the person is,” Thompson said.
Thompson’s stance has drawn attention given his own immigration journey, highlighting a broader debate within immigrant communities over enforcement and opportunity.
“I came to the U.S. on a student visa and have always had big dreams. I’m now truly living the American dream,” Thompson said at the time, as per the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Who is Tristan Thompson?
READ: Trump has gone too far with his immigration policies: AAPI survey (March 25, 2026)
Tristan Thompson is a Canadian professional basketball player born on March 13, 1991, in Brampton, Ontario. He played college basketball at the University of Texas and was selected fourth overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2011 NBA Draft. Thompson spent the majority of his career with the Cavaliers, helping them win the 2016 NBA Championship, the first in the franchise’s history. He earned a reputation as a strong rebounder, defender, and energetic presence on the court.
After his time with Cleveland, Thompson also played for the Boston Celtics, Sacramento Kings, Indiana Pacers, and Chicago Bulls, contributing as a veteran forward and center. As of 2026, Thompson is a free agent, meaning he is not currently signed with any NBA team.
Known for his hustle and championship experience, Thompson remains a notable figure in basketball circles. Off the court, he has maintained a public profile through charity work, media appearances, and community involvement.