Kevin Garnett's Minnesota reunion underscores Wolves' improbable rise to contender

Team owners Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez made it a priority to bring back Garnett when they took over last year. On Sunday, KG was home.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 11:50am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game in abstract, overlapping shapes and planes of color, representing the Timberwolves' journey from past struggles to present-day success.As the Minnesota Timberwolves embrace their improbable rise to contender status, the return of franchise icon Kevin Garnett serves as a symbolic homecoming and reminder of the team's storied past.Minneapolis Today

The Minnesota Timberwolves welcomed back franchise legend Kevin Garnett for the first time in eight years, as the team's new ownership group worked to repair the relationship between Garnett and the organization. Garnett's return was celebrated by fans and players alike, underscoring the Timberwolves' improbable rise to become a Western Conference contender after years of struggles following Garnett's departure in 2007.

Why it matters

Garnett's return represents a symbolic healing of the rift between the Timberwolves and one of the greatest players in franchise history. His presence serves as a reminder of the team's successful past and the high expectations they now face as a playoff-caliber squad, after years in the NBA wilderness.

The details

Garnett, who retired in 2016, was estranged from the Timberwolves for years due to a falling out with former owner Glen Taylor. However, new owners Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez made it a priority to bring Garnett back into the fold, appointing him as a team ambassador and paving the way for his jersey retirement next season. On Sunday, Garnett received a thunderous ovation as he walked into Target Center, with Timberwolves players like Anthony Edwards embracing the franchise icon.

  • Garnett last played for the Timberwolves in 2007, before being traded to the Boston Celtics.
  • Garnett retired from the NBA in 2016.
  • Lore and Rodriguez took control of the Timberwolves in 2021.
  • Garnett's jersey will be retired by the Timberwolves next season.

The players

Kevin Garnett

A former NBA MVP and Hall of Famer who spent 14 seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves, establishing himself as one of the greatest players in franchise history.

Marc Lore

The new co-owner of the Minnesota Timberwolves, who made it a priority to repair the relationship between the team and Kevin Garnett.

Alex Rodriguez

The new co-owner of the Minnesota Timberwolves, who worked alongside Marc Lore to bring Kevin Garnett back into the fold.

Anthony Edwards

The current star player for the Minnesota Timberwolves, who was so overcome by Garnett's return that he walked down the baseline to embrace the franchise icon.

Chris Finch

The head coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves, who invited Garnett to address the team in the locker room before the game to give the players a boost as the playoffs approach.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'What's up, Minny? Let's get live in here.'”

— Kevin Garnett

“'I think it was good for our guys. They got a sense of just how important someone with a legacy is, and what that really means.'”

— Chris Finch, Timberwolves Head Coach

“'When you're in it, you don't know how special it is.'”

— Kevin Garnett

“'I ain't never been home before damn near June. I don't know what that's like. I don't.'”

— Jaylen Clark, Timberwolves Guard

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.