minneapolis-the minnesota timberwolves Rested almost all of their regular players for the playoffs during win 132-126 Above New Orleans Pelicans On Sunday, franchise icon Kevin Garnett made a special appearance for Fan Appreciation Night in the regular season finale.
With the Timberwolves locked into the No. 6 seed in the Western Conference and the Pelicans eliminated early, the highlight was Garnett’s first trip to Target Center in eight years.
The Hall of Fame forward and all-time franchise leader in nearly every major statistical category came onto the field with Timberwolves co-owners Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez after the player introductions, drawing a roar from the crowd and clapping his heart over his heart. After giving the present star Anthony Edwards Embracing a bear, Garnett took his seat on the court.
Wolves coach Chris Finch said Garnett spoke to players and members of the coaching staff before the game and said Sunday was “a special night.”
“[Garnett] Was excited to be back, no doubt. And when he walked out it was a really cool moment,” Finch said. “I think it was good for our guys because they realized how important someone with that legacy is and what it really means.”
Garnett, who had a falling out with previous owner Glenn Taylor after his career ended, reached a deal last year to serve as an ambassador with the team. His number 21 jersey will be retired at a later date.
The Timberwolves (49-33) turned nine of their top 10 players into fan favorites joe ingles A symbolic debut in a 15-point, 10-assist performance. newbie ahead joan behringer He had 24 points, 12 rebounds and seven blocks.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
