Kevin Garnett Return Home Opener
Kevin Love's Timberwolves tenure: a rebounding leader and Most Improved Player.
Kevin Love was drafted fifth overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in 2008 and traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves on draft night. He played six seasons with the Timberwolves, winning the NBA Most Improved Player Award in 2011 and leading the league in rebounding.
Quick Facts
- Date
- March 4, 2007
Lore & Background
During the 2010–11 season, Love established the longest streak for consecutive games recording double figures in points and rebounds since the ABA–NBA merger.
Reader's Guide
Love was traded to the Timberwolves on draft night in 2008 in an eight-player deal that sent O. J. Mayo to the Grizzlies. He played for Minnesota until 2014, when he was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Did You Know?
- Love was a five-time NBA All-Star and two-time All-NBA Second Team selection.
- He won an NBA championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016.
- Love was a member of the gold medal-winning U.S. national team at the 2010 FIBA World Championship and the 2012 Summer Olympics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Kevin Garnett Return Home Opener'?
This refers to the emotional NBA regular-season game on October 28, 2015, where Kevin Garnett played for the Boston Celtics against his former team, the Minnesota Timberwolves. It marked his final return to the Target Center as an active player before retiring.
Which teams played in this historic opener?
The Boston Celtics hosted the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Target Center in Minneapolis during the 2015-16 regular season. It served as the season-opening game for both franchises, highlighting the renewed connection between Garnett and his old squad.
What was Kevin Garnett's status when he returned to Minnesota?
At the time of this return, Garnett was an active player under contract with the Boston Celtics, playing in what would eventually be his final season. He had previously played for the Wolves from 1995 to 2007 and briefly again in 2013-2014.
How did fans react to Garnett's return?
The crowd at Target Center gave him a massive, emotional ovation that lasted several minutes as he acknowledged the fans who supported his career. This moment is remembered as one of the most touching homecomings in Minnesota sports history.
More in Iconic Matches & Playoff Runs
Elsewhere in Minnesota Timberwolves
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced