The New York Knicks’ center Karl-Anthony Towns made a remarkable return to the Target Center on Thursday night, receiving an enthusiastic welcome from the Minnesota Timberwolves fanbase, where he spent the first nine years of his NBA career. Towns delivered an exceptional performance in the Knicks’ 133-107 victory over his former team, scoring 32 points, collecting 20 rebounds, and dishing out six assists, all while shooting an impressive 10-for-12, including perfect 3-point shooting at 5-for-5.
With this standout game, Towns achieved a notable milestone, becoming the first player in NBA history to record over 30 points, over 20 rebounds, and five 3-pointers with an 80% shooting accuracy in a single game.
Towns reflected on the significance of the game, stating, “This place means a lot to me and my family. Everyone was trying to make it seem like it was just another game. I knew it wasn’t. I wasn’t playing for myself. I was playing for the win.” While many speculated about whether extra motivation fueled his performance against the Timberwolves, he chose to keep his deeper feelings private.
Before the game began, Towns was honored with a tribute video displayed on the Jumbotron, followed by a standing ovation from the supportive Minneapolis crowd, highlighting the strong connection he built throughout his time with the team. In his nearly 600 games with the Timberwolves, he posted impressive averages of 23 points, 11 rebounds, and three assists while maintaining a shooting percentage of 40% from beyond the arc.
The Timberwolves’ decision to trade Towns to the Knicks came as a surprise, with the team sending him to New York in exchange for Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, Keita Bates-Diop, and a future first-round pick. Towns himself was taken off guard by the trade, responding with a simple, terse message on social media that reflected his disbelief.
Wolves star Anthony Edwards expressed his feelings regarding the trade, acknowledging, “I think everybody knows [Towns] is my brother. So that definitely hurts, but you know, it’s a business, so I just have to roll with it.”
As the Timberwolves continue to navigate their season, sitting at 14-12 with a mix of recent successes and struggles, the Knicks have thrived under Towns’ influence, improving to 17-10 and boasting the league’s second-best offensive rating.
This performance not only reflected Towns’ immense talent and determination but also spotlighted the positive energy he carries to his new team, inspiring both the Knicks and their fans.
In summary, Towns’ triumphant return to Minnesota encapsulates the highs and lows of professional sports, showcasing his resilience and commitment while also emphasizing the supportive nature of the basketball community. It is a hopeful reminder of how players can rise to new heights, no matter the challenges they face in their careers.