When Tristan Thompson speaks, people tend to listen, especially when the topic goes beyond basketball. The longtime NBA veteran and a champion due to his time in Cleveland, Ohio, recently found himself in the middle of a political conversation after voicing support for Donald Trump’s immigration policies. And as expected, his comments are getting attention.
In a recently posted preview clip for an upcoming episode of The Katie Miller Podcast, former Cleveland, Ohio, center Tristan Thompson didn’t shy away from sharing his perspective. In fact, he was pretty direct about where he stands. “What President [Donald] Trump is doing, first of all, I love what he’s done so far for our country,” Thompson said. “I think he’s helped our country a lot.” That alone is enough to spark debate, but it’s what he said next that really framed his position.
Thompson, who is an immigrant himself, explained that his views come from personal experience and the people around him, and outside of the NBA. “I’m a firm believer because I have family members, and I have people that are immigrants,” he shared. “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.”
Former Cleveland, Ohio, NBA Center Tristan Thompson Gets Political
It’s a stance that aligns with Trump’s stricter approach to immigration, particularly when it comes to cracking down on illegal entry into the United States. But Thompson’s comments aren’t just political talking points. They’re rooted in his own journey.
Born in Brampton, Ontario, Canada, Thompson came to the U.S. on a student visa to chase his basketball dreams. He attended prep schools in New Jersey and Nevada before playing college ball at the University of Texas. From there, he was drafted fourth overall in 2011 by the Cleveland Cavaliers, eventually helping lead the franchise to its first-ever NBA championship in 2016. He later signed with the Boston Celtics in 2020.
That same year marked a major personal milestone. Thompson officially became a U.S. citizen after taking the Oath of Allegiance. According to him, the process was surprisingly smooth. He described it as “quick,” noting that it happened during the pandemic. That experience clearly shaped his belief that the system, while not perfect, can work.
Still, Thompson isn’t completely rigid in his thinking. While he supports enforcing immigration laws, he also acknowledged that not every situation is black and white. “I think it should be case by case on the right people,” he said. “I understand where he’s coming from, but for me, it varies depending on who the person is.”
Double T Opens Up Regarding His Political Views
That nuance is important. Even as he backs Trump’s crackdown, Thompson expressed empathy for individuals stuck in what he called an “in-between state” with their documentation. It’s a reminder that immigration is deeply personal, even for someone who seems to have navigated the system without major obstacles.
In today’s cultural climate, where athletes are increasingly vocal about social and political issues, Thompson’s comments fit into a larger trend. From speaking out on justice reform to weighing in on public policy, sports figures are no longer staying silent. But with that visibility comes scrutiny, especially when the topic is as polarizing as immigration.
Whether people agree with him or not, Thompson’s perspective adds another layer to the conversation. He’s not just an observer. He’s someone who has lived the immigrant experience, achieved the American dream, and now feels strongly about how others should approach that same path. And if nothing else, his comments prove one thing. The intersection of sports, politics, and personal identity isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
Avery Collins 
Cameron Hayes