No charges will be filed after an investigation into the incident in which a member of Victor Wembanyama‘s security team allegedly hit Britney Spears in the face as the pop singer tried to get Wembanyama’s attention, police said.
Spears has said she was struck by the security guard as she tried to tap Wembanyama on the shoulder near a restaurant in Las Vegas. Video revealed Spears running up behind Wembanyama, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft.
Video of Britney Spears and Victor Wembanyama:
(Via TMZ) pic.twitter.com/KIr0jy9Lbh
— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) July 7, 2023
Wembanyama said he only noticed a person grabbing him from behind, and wasn’t told until later that it was Spears.
Spears filed a police report, and the Las Vegas Police Department said that the matter is closed and that “no charges will be filed against the person involved” following an investigation.
Wembanyama told reporters he didn’t learn that it was Spears who was behind for several hours after the incident took place.
“There was one person who was calling me, but we talked before with the security… ‘don’t stop’ because it’s gonna make a crowd,” he said, via Nate Ryan of KENS5. “So that person is calling ‘Sir, sir,” and that person grabbed me from behind. So I didn’t see what happened because I was walking straight and I’m told don’t stop, but that person grabbed me from behind… not on my shoulder, she grabbed me from behind.
“I just know that the security pushed her away. I don’t know with how much force though but security pushed her away. I didn’t stop to look so I kept walking and enjoyed a nice dinner.”
Spears released a statement on social media saying she was hoping for an apology.
“I recognized an athlete in my hotel lobby as I was heading to dinner. I later went to a restaurant at a different hotel and saw him again. I decided to approach him and congratulate him on his success. It was really loud, so I tapped him on the shoulder to get his attention. I am aware of the players statement where he mentions “I grabbed him from behind” but I simply tapped him on the shoulder. His security then back handed me in the face without looking back, in front of a crowd. Nearly knocking me down and causing my glasses off my face,” she said.
“I get swarmed by people all the time. In fact, that night. I was swarmed by a group of at least 20 fans. My security team didn’t hit any of them,” Spears said. “This story is super embarrassing to share with the world but its out there already. However, I think it’s important to share this story and urge people in the public eye to set an example and treat all people with respect. Physical violence is happening too much in this world. Often behind closed doors. I stand with all the victims and my heart goes out to all of you!!! I have yet to get a public apology from the player, his security or their organization. I hope they will…”
— Britney Spears ?? (@britneyspears) July 6, 2023
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