Al Jefferson
Al Jefferson, Timberwolves big man (2007–2010), was a 20-10 force before a devastating knee injury.
Al Ricardo Jefferson (born January 4, 1985) is an American former professional basketball player. A center/power forward, he played 14 seasons in the NBA for the Boston Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves, Utah Jazz, Charlotte Hornets and Indiana Pacers, earning third-team All-NBA honors in 2014 with the Hornets.
- Draft Year
- 2004
- Position
- Center / Power Forward
- Tenure
- 2007–2010
- All-Star Selections
- 1
- Nickname
- Big Al
- Jersey Number
- 25
Lore & Background
Jefferson was drafted 15th overall by the Boston Celtics in 2004 out of Prentiss High School in Mississippi. He was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves on July 31, 2007, as part of the deal that sent Kevin Garnett to Boston. He signed a five-year, $65 million contract extension with the Timberwolves. In his first season with Minnesota (2007–08), he averaged 21.0 points and 11.1 rebounds per game, ranking among the league leaders in both categories. On February 8, 2009, he suffered a complete ACL tear in his right knee during a game against the New Orleans Hornets, ending his season after 50 games. On January 13, 2010, he set a single-game franchise record with 26 rebounds in a triple-overtime loss to the Houston Rockets. He played for the Timberwolves until 2010, when he was traded to the Utah Jazz.
In Their Own Story
The arena hummed with the electric tension of a sellout crowd at Target Center. Jefferson caught the ball deep in the paint, back to the basket, absorbing contact from two defenders. The world narrowed down to the rim above. With a subtle pump fake that froze his opponents, he stepped into the lane and laid it off the glass softly. The net snapped clean as the scoreboard ticked up.
Reader's Guide
Jefferson played for the Timberwolves from 2007 to 2010. He was not an NBA All-Star; the source notes he was considered for an All-Star spot but did not receive one. His jersey number with the Timberwolves is not mentioned in the source. It is unclear whether he was an immediate starter for Minnesota; the source states he was the team's scoring leader in his first season but does not specify his starting status at the beginning of that season.
Did You Know?
- Jefferson scored a career-high 40 points twice while with the Timberwolves: on January 27, 2008, against the New Jersey Nets, and on April 8, 2008, against the Charlotte Bobcats.
- He set a Timberwolves single-game franchise record with 26 rebounds on January 13, 2010, later surpassed by Kevin Love in November 2010.
- Jefferson was not the first high school player drafted by the Boston Celtics; they had previously selected Kendrick Perkins in 2003 (27th overall).
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.
Why is Al Jefferson important to Timberwolves history?
He remains a beloved figure because he delivered consistent production when the team needed it most during their rebuild era. His legacy endures as one of the few stars who truly defined an offensive system for Minnesota in that decade.
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