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Jonathan Kuminga Chooses Timberwolves After Genuine Recruiting Push
Jonathan Kuminga decided to play for the Minnesota Timberwolves this season.
He liked how his skills could fit with the team.
He also appreciated that team leaders personally contacted him.
Anthony Edwards called him often and talked about basketball and everyday life.
Kuminga said those conversations felt honest and genuine.
Minnesota offered him a two-year contract worth $12.4 million.
The team hopes his energy will improve both its offense and defense.
Kuminga has already won an NBA championship as a rookie.
The Timberwolves believe he can help them compete for another championship.
Jonathan Kuminga signed a two-year, $12.4 million contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Kuminga said personal outreach from Anthony Edwards, LaMelo Ball and team officials influenced his decision.
The 23-year-old chose Minnesota for its on-court fit, championship ambitions and strong personal connections.
The Timberwolves needed a power forward after trading Julius Randle and Naz Reid in the deal for Ball.
Kuminga averaged a career-high 16.1 points in 2023-24 but later missed time with an ankle injury and left the Golden State Warriors.
- Who
- Jonathan Kuminga and the Minnesota Timberwolves, with recruiting efforts from Anthony Edwards, LaMelo Ball and team officials.
- What
- Kuminga chose Minnesota and signed a two-year, $12.4 million contract.
- Where
- The news conference was held at Target Center in Minneapolis.
- When
- The decision was discussed at Kuminga’s introductory news conference on Thursday; he is joining the team for this season.
- Why
- Kuminga cited Minnesota’s on-court fit, championship opportunity and the genuine personal connections he developed with the organization.
Key facts
- Contract
- Two years, $12.4 million, with a player option for the second year.
- Age
- 23
- Previous team
- Golden State Warriors
- Career high
- 16.1 points per game in 2023-24
- Draft history
- Selected seventh overall in 2021 by Golden State with a pick originally belonging to Minnesota.
- Minnesota roster need
- The Timberwolves had a power-forward vacancy after trading Julius Randle and Naz Reid.
- NBA experience
- Kuminga won an NBA championship as a rookie.
Quotes
Jonathan Kuminga
Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jonathan Kuminga
“Just kind of being ourselves and telling him how we envisioned our team helping him and how we envisioned him helping our team. Just trying to be honest and as clear and transparent as possible.”
livemint.com
“Especially Ant, he called me every single time. He checked up on me, and he was a very, very genuine person. He didn’t have to do that. That just shows how much he wants to bring me over here.”
livemint.com
Sources
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