Britney Spears was reportedly smacked by a member of NBA star Victor Wembanyama’s security team in Las Vegas, TMZ reported on Thursday. It happened Wednesday around 11 p.m. at Catch restaurant inside the Aria Hotel. Spears was reportedly there with her husband Sam Asghari and several other people.
According to TMZ, a member of Wembanyama’s security detail slapped Spears after she asked the NBA star for a picture. Reports stated she grabbed him, but Spears is singing a different tune.
Spears released a statement on the incident that detailed what happened while pointing out that she should not have been treated that way regardless of whether Wembanyama was being “swarmed.”
Spears called the incident “super embarrassing,” but said the purpose of sharing her story was to “urge people in the public eye to set an example and treat all people with respect.”
“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 wrote.
“This story is super embarrassing to share with the world but it’s out there already. However, I think it’s important to share this story and to 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…
“I cherish the tremendous amounts of love and support I am receiving at the moment. Thank you to the Las Vegas PD and the detectives for their support”
TMZ first reported that Spears had been “backhanded” by a member of Wembanyama’s security. That member was later identified by the outlet as Spurs’ Director of Team Security Damian Smith.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral General stories via Google! Follow Us
The report also stated that security footage allegedly showed Smith pushing Spears’ hand away, causing her hand to strike her face.
Wembanyama was drafted by the Spurs with the first overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft last month and is widely regarded as the best prospect to enter the league since LeBron James was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003.
He is currently in Vegas for the NBA Summer League.
