MINNEAPOLIS — Karl-Anthony Towns took a moment to ponder his nine influential years in the NBA with the Minnesota Timberwolves, arriving early for the morning shootaround before the New York Knicks.
Facing a team that he once believed he’d spend his entire career with felt surreal, prompting him to need a little extra time to prepare for the occasion.
“All these moments that I’ve been blessed to have here in a Timberwolves jersey, it meant a lot that I was given the chance,” Towns shared after a night filled with emotion that turned into exhilaration, as the Knicks easily defeated the Timberwolves 133-107 on Thursday.
The significance of this reunion was undeniable—Minnesota holds a special place in Towns’ heart. Despite facing challenges over the years, he left a lasting impression on both the franchise and the community.
“Just a shoutout to my teammates for empowering me and putting me in a spot to succeed. I think everyone saw it: They understood the game was a big game for me, personally,” Towns expressed, having achieved 32 points, 20 rebounds, and six assists during the matchup.
“What more can you say? It was just a monster game,” coach Tom Thibodeau remarked.
Towns made NBA history by becoming the first player to reach milestones of 30 points, 20 rebounds, five 3-pointers, and 80% shooting in a single game, shooting 10 for 12 overall.
“I’m really happy for him, man. That’s everything you dream of. Get traded, come back, and beat your former team by 30,” Timberwolves standout Anthony Edwards stated. “I’m frustrated we lost, but deep down, we’re really happy for him. That’s my guy.”
Edwards struggled throughout the game, finishing with 17 points on 7 for 16 shooting, along with seven assists.
“He knows he can count on me. I’ve always wanted to lift him up and provide him with the best experience in the NBA while helping him navigate the challenges of being a pro,” Towns acknowledged. “I’m honored to have played a role in his journey.”
When Towns stepped onto the court wearing the Knicks’ blue and orange warmups, the crowd erupted as they recognized him, and he greeted them with a familiar smile.
From the bench, he viewed a two-minute tribute video and waved to the fans during his introduction.
Despite the unusual atmosphere for everyone present at the arena, the sentiment of gratitude was palpable.
“Whether it was about basketball, personal issues, or anything else, KAT was always there for you, and he always will be,” Timberwolves center Naz Reid commented earlier this week.
This was Towns’ first return to Minnesota since being traded just days prior to the start of training camp, with the Knicks giving up Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, and future salary cap flexibility in the deal.
“Usually, I’m the one in the Timberwolves jersey looking at tribute videos. It feels weird to be on the other side now,” Towns admitted before the game, standing at the same podium in the interview room where he had addressed reporters numerous times.
Just a few months ago, he had a large framed photo displayed behind the riser, alongside other stars at Target Center. Now, Edwards has firmly taken the spotlight in Minnesota.
After displaying unwavering loyalty to a team long stranded in mediocrity, Towns expected to play for Minnesota throughout his career. However, the competitive nature of the NBA, now a $11 billion business, leaves little room for nostalgia.
While he felt a strong connection to the franchise and its fans, transitioning to the Knicks was aided by his upbringing in nearby New Jersey. The shift back to center from power forward also eased his adaptation, having only recently switched positions due to the arrival of Rudy Gobert. Towns’ natural inclination to support his teammates made the transition to a new team less intimidating.
So far, the transition appears successful.
The Knicks, boasting a 17-10 record, sit in third place in the Eastern Conference with 12 victories in their last 16 outings. Towns leads the league in rebounding and is averaging nearly 25 points per game, his highest output in four years.
Randle scored 15 of his 24 points in the first quarter for Minnesota (14-12), who struggled offensively and was outscored 37-8 during the first nine minutes of the second quarter. By that point, the crowd’s energy had diminished, and the Timberwolves couldn’t reclaim their momentum. Knicks superfan Spike Lee remained enthusiastic throughout the match, sporting a Jalen Brunson jersey and a blue and orange Knicks hat.
“You know this game was more than just another game,” Towns asserted. “Anyone who tells you otherwise is mistaken.”