As Karl-Anthony Towns stepped foot inside the Target Center on Thursday morning, the memories of his 9 seasons donning a Minnesota Timberwolves jersey came flooding back. But this time, the 3-time All-Star entered the building he once called home as a member of the opposing New York Knicks squad.
“I know it’s going to be a lot,” Towns admitted with a laugh, anticipating the whirlwind of emotions that awaited him later that evening. “But I just want to appreciate every second, every moment of being back here.”
Forever a Part of Minnesota
Drafted 1st overall by the Wolves in 2015, Towns quickly became the face of the franchise and forged an unbreakable bond with the city of Minnesota. Even after the surprising blockbuster trade that sent him to New York just days before training camp, that connection remains as strong as ever.
“I’m an avid Timberwolves fan, so I watch a lot of their games when I get a chance,” Towns revealed. “They’re still my brothers, my guys. Just because a trade happened, doesn’t mean I lost love for them. The brotherhood is always going to be there.”
Cherished Memories in Minnesota
From playing alongside his idol Kevin Garnett as a rookie, to watching Derrick Rose drop a 50-piece in 2018, to the Wolves’ thrilling Game 7 victory over Denver that sent them to the 2024 Western Conference Finals, Towns reflected on some of his most impactful moments in a Wolves uniform.
“I’ve been through a lot, especially in a Timberwolves jersey,” he reminisced. “I just want to be in a place of life where I look at things from a glass half-full. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be back home and have so many great memories to reflect on.”
Finding Success in New York
While Minnesota will always hold a special place in his heart, Towns has seamlessly adapted to his new team. The talented big man is putting up monster numbers for the Knicks, averaging a career-high 24.8 points along with a league-leading 13.9 rebounds per game.
His stellar play has New York sitting comfortably as the 3rd seed in the Eastern Conference, with realistic aspirations of making a deep playoff run. It’s a testament to Towns’ professionalism and adaptability that he’s been able to thrive in his new surroundings so quickly.
Bittersweet Reunion
As tip-off approaches, Towns knows it will be a bittersweet experience squaring off against his former teammates and coaches. The memories, both joyful and challenging, will undoubtedly come rushing back as soon as he takes the court.
“Of course I miss Minnesota,” Towns stated emphatically. “I called this place home for nine years. That’s a long time. I’m just trying to appreciate these moments that don’t come around often and be grateful to play here again, even if it’s on the opposite side this time.”
Regardless of the outcome, Towns’ return to the Target Center will be a heartfelt and significant moment in his NBA journey. As one chapter closes and another begins, the bond between this special player and the city that embraced him remains as powerful as ever.
