Kentucky State University women’s basketball player Aminata Seck, a 26-year-old Senegalese athlete, was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on August 7 at Louisville’s Muhammad Ali International Airport. She was traveling to attend the HBCU All-Star game in New York. Seck, a senior who started 20 of 26 games last season and received academic honors, has since been transferred through four different ICE facilities, according to her lawyer, Sadiqa Reynolds.
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Reynolds explained that Seck's detention stemmed from a missed student visa deadline, which she described as a "paperwork situation" related to her recovery from back surgery. Seck has been suffering from an ACL injury while detained and has only been provided ibuprofen instead of proper medical care.
ICE arrests in Kentucky have reportedly increased by 70% this year. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that Seck “chose to overstay her welcome” and noted an immigration judge issued a final order of removal for Seck on September 8, 2025, citing her failure to appear at a hearing. DHS claimed that she will remain in ICE custody during removal proceedings. On September 21, a local hospital treated Seck for knee pain, although medical personnel had previously noted she was wearing a leg brace for a pre-existing knee injury. This has raised concerns about the adequacy of medical care she received during her detention.
Hishem Alsalman, Seck’s lawyer for her federal habeas corpus petition, stated that she was never notified of the hearing leading to her removal order. He asserted that she was actively trying to maintain her student status. Additionally, during her detention, Seck has reportedly experienced seizures and is receiving medical attention as of September 23.
Kentucky State basketball coach Amani Williams has provided substantial support to Seck, treating her as a family member. However, the situation highlights the need for universities to establish robust support systems for international athletes rather than relying on individual efforts.
This case comes at a time when the White House has significantly increased ICE operations with a stated goal of deporting one million people annually. Recent statements from officials have raised concerns about the treatment of international college athletes (ICAs), especially amid legislative proposals aimed at limiting the participation of non-American athletes.
International students contribute significantly to university revenue through tuition and fees. However, ICAs face challenges such as visa restrictions, discrimination, and inadequate institutional support despite being key assets to athletic programs. Kentucky State University and the NCAA have benefitted from Seck’s contributions both academically and athletically, yet remain silent as she navigates this precarious situation.
Experts urge that institutions must take responsibility for their international recruits’ wellbeing, particularly when policy issues arise. The ethical implications of institutions benefiting from ICAs while neglecting their immigration status could prompt a reevaluation of responsibilities owed to these athletes. Academic and athletic leaders stress that the resources generated from international students should be invested in ensuring their safety and status.