Kevin Garnett Reunites with Minnesota Timberwolves

Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett has agreed to reunite with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Minnesota Lynx in a new, all-encompassing role involving business, community, and fan engagement efforts and content development, sources told ESPN on Thursday.

Jersey Retirement Ceremony

The Timberwolves will hold Garnett’s much-awaited No. 21 jersey retirement ceremony in Minnesota over the next two seasons, sources said.

A Fresh Start for Garnett

Garnett had been distant from the Timberwolves since his playing career ended in 2016 due to a fallout with former owner Glen Taylor. He refused to have his jersey retired but has now built a rapport with new governors Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez, leading to a reunion.

Finalizing the Agreement

Timberwolves officials finalized the terms of Garnett’s return to the franchise this month with his business manager Rich Gray and attorney George Daniel.

Garnett’s Legacy

Garnett, a 15-time NBA All-Star, is the Timberwolves’ all-time leader in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. He is the only NBA player to lead a franchise in those five categories. Garnett is also the only player in Timberwolves history to win an MVP (2003-04).

Timberwolves’ Recent Success

He led the Timberwolves to eight straight playoff appearances between 1996-97 and 2003-04, the last of those being their only campaign with a playoff series win until their 2024 West finals run.

Focused on Stronger Culture

In the months following their agreement to buy the Timberwolves for a $1.5 billion valuation in 2021, Lore and Rodriguez prioritized strengthening the franchise’s culture as well as its relationship with alumni players and staffers, led by the iconic Garnett.

Investments in the Future

Under Lore and Rodriguez, the Timberwolves have invested significant resources across the organization — including commitments for a front office staff featuring president of basketball operations Tim Connelly, entering the luxury tax for a third consecutive season, and continuing to progress on plans for a new arena in downtown Minneapolis over the next decade.

Current Season Outlook

The Timberwolves (17-10) are again fighting for postseason positioning in the West after two straight conference finals appearances.

FAQs

When will Kevin Garnett’s jersey be retired?

The Timberwolves plan to hold the jersey retirement ceremony over the next two seasons.

What led to Garnett’s return to the Timberwolves?

Garnett built a rapport with new governors Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez, allowing for a reunion after a previous fallout with former owner Glen Taylor.

What are Garnett’s accomplishments with the Timberwolves?

Garnett is the all-time leader in several categories and won an MVP award during his time with the team.