Timberwolves Secure Regular-Season Win as Kevin Garnett Returns to Target Center
The Minnesota Timberwolves closed out their 2025-26 regular season on a high note, securing a 132-126 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday, April 12, 2026. Whereas the win provided a positive momentum shift heading into the playoffs, the evening’s primary focus was the emotional return of franchise icon Kevin Garnett to the Target Center.
The Return of a Legend: Kevin Garnett Comes Home
For the first time in eight years, Kevin Garnett returned to the Target Center, marking his first appearance at the arena since 2018. The former 2004 NBA MVP, who spent 14 seasons with the Timberwolves, was welcomed back as a team ambassador under the ownership of Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez.
Garnett’s return was a central part of the night’s festivities. Escorted to courtside seats by Lore, Rodriguez, and his two daughters, Garnett acknowledged the crowd during a tribute video. In a symbolic passing of the torch, Garnett shared a moment with current Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards, although Edwards did not play in the game as the team rested its regulars for the postseason.
“Coming back for me is about what’s next,” Garnett stated following the announcement of his return. He highlighted the energy and vision of the new ownership, noting that the current team is “hungry to win.”
Game Analysis: Timberwolves 132, Pelicans 126
With the playoffs looming, Minnesota opted to rest nearly all of its regular starters. Despite the depleted lineup, the Timberwolves maintained control, shooting 51% from the field (45-89) to outperform the Pelicans’ 42% (45-108).
Key Player Performances
- Terrence Shannon Jr. (MIN): Led the Timberwolves with 26 points, shooting 6-of-18 from the field and 14-of-18 from the free-throw line.
- Joan Beringer (MIN): Contributed 12 points and 7 rebounds, including 5 offensive boards.
- J. Fears (NO): Paced the Pelicans with a game-high 36 points, going 12-of-29 from the field.
- D. Queen (NO): Recorded a strong double-double with 22 points and 15 rebounds.
Team Statistics Comparison
| Stat | New Orleans Pelicans | Minnesota Timberwolves |
|---|---|---|
| Field Goal % | 42% (45-108) | 51% (45-89) |
| Three Point % | 24% (5-21) | 27% (10-37) |
| Free Throw % | 82% (31-38) | 74% (32-43) |
| Rebounds | 53 | 47 |
Fan Appreciation Night and Festivities
The regular-season finale doubled as Fan Appreciation Night at the Target Center. The event featured a variety of in-game experiences, giveaways, and the presence of several of Garnett’s former teammates. Adding to the celebration, Montell Jordan delivered a halftime performance for the home crowd.
Key Takeaways
- Emotional Reunion: Kevin Garnett’s first Target Center appearance since 2018 underscores his new role as team ambassador.
- Strategic Resting: The Timberwolves secured a win while resting key starters to ensure health for the upcoming playoffs.
- Bench Depth: Terrence Shannon Jr. Demonstrated his value by leading the scoring effort in the absence of the primary starters.
As the Timberwolves transition from the regular season to the playoffs, the return of Kevin Garnett serves as a bridge between the franchise’s storied past and its current championship aspirations.
Related reading