What You Need to Know About the Incident Between Britney Spears and Victor Wembanyama

On Wednesday night (July 5), Britney Spears was allegedly assaulted by a security guard while trying to approach NBA player Victor Wembanyama in Las Vegas. According to TMZ, who broke the news, "Victor Wembanyama's security backhanded her in the face, and she has filed a police report."

Britney allegedly spotted Victor at a restaurant and"tapped him on his back" for a photo. Per TMZ's initial reporting, Director of Team Security for the San Antonio Spurs "instantly backhanded her, causing her to fall to the ground" and "knocking her glasses off."

The outlet notes that an apology was given to Britney, and her security team "spent time with Victor's security guy, and afterward her team filed a police report with the Metropolitan Police Dept. alleging battery."

TMZ has since provided several updates, and Britney Spears, Victor, and Britney's husband Sam Ashgari have spoken out.

TMZ's Latest Details

TMZ has conflicting information from sources about whether or not the incident is being handled as a criminal matter. They also claim security footage shows Britney's hand hitting her own face due to being pushed away.

Victor's Statement

Victor spoke to reporters about the incident, saying "I didn't see what happened, because I was walking straight and we were told, 'Don't stop.' But that person grabbed me from behind—not on my shoulder, she grabbed me from behind—and so I just know 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 could walk in and enjoy the nice dinner."

Re: finding out the person in question was Britney Spears, he said "At first I was like, 'No, you're joking.' But, yeah, it turns out it was Britney Spears."

Britney's Statement

Britney released the following lengthy statement on Instagram Thursday afternoon:

“Traumatic experiences are not new to me and I have had my fair share of them. I was not prepared for what happened to me last night. 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 player’s 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 went on to say "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. 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 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…."

Britney ended her statement with, "I also don't appreciate nor do I think this is a laughing matter. Watching the player smile and laugh was cruel and demoralizing with the situation that took place. I am 5'3 and he is 7'4. 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.”

Sam's Statement

Taking to Instagram Stories, Britney's husband wrote "I am opposed to violence in any form, especially without justification in the defense of yourself or someone else who is unable to defend themselves. Self-defense can be unavoidable, but the defense of any woman, especially my wife, is not debatable. I consider my reaction subdued considering what occurred, and I hope the man in question learns a lesson and changes his disregard for women. Thank you for the support.”

The Police's Statement

The Las Vegas Police issued a statement saying "On July 5, 2023, at approximately 11 p.m., LVMPD officers responded to a property in the 3700 block of Las Vegas Boulevard regarding a battery investigation. The incident has been documented on a police report and no arrest or citations have been issued. No further details will be provided at this time."

We'll be updating this as news progresses.

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