Timberwolves Welcome Back Franchise Icon Kevin Garnett

Legendary forward's return to Minneapolis celebrated in playoff victory over Pelicans

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:55am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game, with players and the court broken down into abstract shapes and planes of color, capturing the energy and movement of the sport.The Timberwolves' playoff victory over the Pelicans was a celebration of the franchise's past and a glimpse of its promising future.Minneapolis Today

The Timberwolves' playoff win over the Pelicans was a celebration of franchise icon Kevin Garnett's return to Minneapolis. Garnett, a Hall of Fame forward and the team's all-time leader, made his first appearance at the Target Center in eight years, marking a new chapter after a falling out with the previous owner. The game itself showcased the team's depth, with nine of their top 10 players rested and fan favorite Joe Ingles leading the way. Rookie forward Joan Beringer also had an impressive performance, highlighting the team's promising future. Garnett's presence and the team's victory served as a symbolic triumph, underscoring the power of nostalgia and the importance of honoring franchise icons.

Why it matters

Garnett's reunion with the Timberwolves is a significant moment for the franchise, as it signals a healing of past tensions and a renewed commitment to honoring the team's history and legacy. His role as an ambassador will be crucial in shaping the team's identity and inspiring the next generation of players and fans.

The details

Garnett, a 15-time NBA All-Star and the Timberwolves' all-time leader in points, rebounds, and blocks, had a falling out with the team's previous owner after his retirement. His agreement to serve as an ambassador and the retirement of his No. 21 jersey mark a new era for the franchise, one that celebrates its past while looking to the future.

  • Garnett made his first appearance at the Target Center in eight years.
  • The Timberwolves defeated the Pelicans in a playoff game.

The players

Kevin Garnett

A Hall of Fame forward and the Timberwolves' all-time leader in points, rebounds, and blocks, who is returning to the franchise as an ambassador after a falling out with the previous owner.

Joan Beringer

A rookie forward for the Timberwolves who had an impressive performance in the playoff game, showcasing the team's promising future.

Joe Ingles

A fan favorite for the Timberwolves who led the team in scoring and assists in the playoff game, despite many of the team's top players being rested.

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What’s next

As the Timberwolves look to the future, Garnett's role as an ambassador will be crucial in shaping the team's identity and legacy.

The takeaway

This event underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of past stars, as they continue to inspire and influence the present and future of the franchise.