Al Jefferson
Former Timberwolves big man and 20-10 threat before knee injury.
Al Ricardo Jefferson (born January 4, 1985) is an American former professional basketball player. A center/power forward, he was a high school All-American for Prentiss High School in Mississippi before skipping college to enter the 2004 NBA draft, where he was drafted 15th overall by the Boston Celtics. He played 14 seasons in the NBA for the Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves, Utah Jazz, Charlotte Hornets and Indiana Pacers, earning third-team All-NBA honors in 2014 with the Hornets.
Quick Facts
- Draft year
- 2004
- Position
- Center; Power Forward
- Tenure
- 2007–2010
- All-star selections
- 1
- Nickname
- Big Al
- Jersey number
- 25
Lore & Background
Jefferson attended Prentiss High School from 2000 to 2004. In his senior year, he averaged 42.6 points, 18 rebounds and seven blocks per game. He was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 2004. On July 31, 2007, he was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in exchange for Kevin Garnett. He signed a five-year, $65 million contract extension. In his first season with the Timberwolves, he averaged 21.0 points and 11.1 rebounds per game. He suffered a complete ACL tear in his right knee during the 2008–09 season. On January 13, 2010, he set a single-game franchise record with 26 rebounds in a triple overtime loss to the Houston Rockets. He was traded to the Utah Jazz on July 13, 2010.
Reader's Guide
Jefferson played for the Timberwolves from 2007 to 2010. He was the team's scoring leader in his first season. He won Western Conference Player of the Week in January 2008. His career-high 40 points came against the New Jersey Nets on January 27, 2008, and again against the Charlotte Bobcats on April 8, 2008. He averaged 17.1 points and 9.3 rebounds in the 2009–10 season after knee surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Al Jefferson?
Al Jefferson was a dominant center and power forward for the Timberwolves from 2004 to 2010. Known as Big Al, he wore number 25 and became one of the franchise's most productive players during his tenure.
What role did Al Jefferson play on the team?
He served as the offensive anchor for a young squad, defining their resurgence in the mid-2000s with his low-post scoring ability. His presence provided stability and identity while the organization sought to rebuild around him.
When was Al Jefferson drafted by Minnesota?
The Timberwolves selected Jefferson in the 2004 NBA Draft, marking the beginning of a six-year chapter in Minnesota. He quickly established himself as a cornerstone piece for the franchise shortly after arriving.
Did Al Jefferson make an All-Star team with the Wolves?
Yes, he earned one All-Star selection while wearing the purple and gold jersey during his time with the Wolves. This honor highlighted his status as one of the league's elite big men at that time.
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