The Resilience of Naz Reid: A Story of Perseverance and Triumph
On a fan giveaway night when a beach towel bared his name, Timberwolves big man Naz Reid was whacked in the neck accidentally by a teammate and kept shooting and scoring anyway, all the way to a 104-91 victory over Cleveland on Friday night at Target Center.
Aforementioned teammate Rudy Gobert and Reid returned to the lineup from injury on a night when the Wolves at times played small and moved the ball all over. They did so to the tune of 27 assists and their fourth victory in five games in their chase for first place in the Western Conference.
Minnesota is now 48-22, its most victories at this point in the season since the 2003-04 season that resulted in a trip to the Western Conference Finals.
Leading by single digits with less than three minutes remaining, Gobert tried to clear a free ball out of danger — and struck Reid in the head instead.
“It was a wild elbow,” Reid said playfully. “He’s lucky. He got away with one earlier, too. But I’m not going to say too much.”
Asked where Gobert struck him, Reid said, “In my throat, got me in the throat. I was cool. He got me, but it wasn’t crazy. I was fine.”
So fine that Reid simply ran down the floor and finished off a play in transition with a right corner three-pointer that gave the Wolves a 99-87 lead with 2:26 left, thanks to an assist from teammate Anthony Edwards.
“I just wanted to wake him up a little bit,” Gobert said. “I think my elbow hit his mouth and then I saw blue. I saw it was a blue jersey. Damn, but it’s part of the game. Naz is tough, a tough guy.”
The Cavaliers never pulled closer than 10 points in a game when they played without star Donovan Mitchell and the Wolves went forth without All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns.
It was Reid’s third and final three-pointer of the night. The Wolves as a team made 14 threes before a sellout crowd announced at 18,024.
Reid started at power forward next to Gobert at center, rather than his usual sixth-man spot, but then gave way to Kyle Anderson to start the second half because Wolves coach Chris Finch said he didn’t want Reid picking up a “cheap” fourth foul that would ruin his rhythm the rest of the night.
“It was a really good pass by Ant, he did a really good job, and Naz was shot ready,” Finch said. “Good to see that one go in because he has missed some really good looks earlier.”
BOXSCORE: Wolves 104, Cleveland 91
NBA standings
Fans chanted his full name throughout the evening, after they had received the blue beach towels that were part of the team’s new lake-themed city edition uniforms this season.
“He has been an incredible story here, from Day 1,” Finch said. “How he’s changed his body, kept growing his game, plays with so much confidence and energy. Whether he starts or comes off the bench, teammates love him. His rebounding. He has so much skill. It’s fun to watch get better all the time.”
Asked afterward about the “Naz Reid” chants that resounded around the arena, Reid said: “Amazing, something you dream about, especially at this level in the NBA. That’s love. So much support. Everybody knows how hard I’ve worked since Day 1 till now and more to come.”
Reid was undrafted out of Louisiana State in 2019, but he spent summers in Minnesota improving his body and his game.
“Naz doesn’t get fazed too much,” veteran point guard Mike Conley said. “He does what he does. He has been huge for us, obviously. It’s good to get all our guys back and hopefully, we get KAT back soon.”
Reid came with greetings from his hometown of Asbury Park, N.J., home to another star nicknamed “The Boss,” Bruce Springsteen.
“For me, it’s like how long it has been going on,” Reid said. “People notice it now, but since my rookie year, it has been a thing. For me, it’s how long it has been going on. That’s just love.”
The Resilience of Naz Reid: A Story of Perseverance and Triumph
On a fan giveaway night when a beach towel bared his name, Timberwolves big man Naz Reid was whacked in the neck accidentally by a teammate and kept shooting and scoring anyway, all the way to a 104-91 victory over Cleveland on Friday night at Target Center.
Aforementioned teammate Rudy Gobert and Reid returned to the lineup from injury on a night when the Wolves at times played small and moved the ball all over. They did so to the tune of 27 assists and their fourth victory in five games in their chase for first place in the Western Conference.
Minnesota is now 48-22, its most victories at this point in the season since the 2003-04 season that resulted in a trip to the Western Conference Finals.
Leading by single digits with less than three minutes remaining, Gobert tried to clear a free ball out of danger — and struck Reid in the head instead.
“It was a wild elbow,” Reid said playfully. “He’s lucky. He got away with one earlier, too. But I’m not going to say too much.”
Asked where Gobert struck him, Reid said, “In my throat, got me in the throat. I was cool. He got me, but it wasn’t crazy. I was fine.”
So fine that Reid simply ran down the floor and finished off a play in transition with a right corner three-pointer that gave the Wolves a 99-87 lead with 2:26 left, thanks to an assist from teammate Anthony Edwards.
“I just wanted to wake him up a little bit,” Gobert said. “I think my elbow hit his mouth and then I saw blue. I saw it was a blue jersey. Damn, but it’s part of the game. Naz is tough, a tough guy.”
The Cavaliers never pulled closer than 10 points in a game when they played without star Donovan Mitchell and the Wolves went forth without All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns.
It was Reid’s third and final three-pointer of the night. The Wolves as a team made 14 threes before a sellout crowd announced at 18,024.
Reid started at power forward next to Gobert at center, rather than his usual sixth-man spot, but then gave way to Kyle Anderson to start the second half because Wolves coach Chris Finch said he didn’t want Reid picking up a “cheap” fourth foul that would ruin his rhythm the rest of the night.
“It was a really good pass by Ant, he did a really good job, and Naz was shot ready,” Finch said. “Good to see that one go in because he has missed some really good looks earlier.”
BOXSCORE: Wolves 104, Cleveland 91
NBA standings
Fans chanted his full name throughout the evening, after they had received the blue beach towels that were part of the team’s new lake-themed city edition uniforms this season.
“He has been an incredible story here, from Day 1,” Finch said. “How he’s changed his body, kept growing his game, plays with so much confidence and energy. Whether he starts or comes off bench, teammates love him. His rebounding. He has so much skill. It’s fun to watch get better all the time.”
Asked afterward about the “Naz Reid” chants that resounded around the arena, Reid said: “Amazing, something you dream about, especially at this level in the NBA. That’s love. So much support. Everybody know how hard I’ve worked since Day 1 till now and more to come.”
Reid was undrafted out of Louisiana State in 2019, but he spent summers in Minnesota improving his body and his game.
“Naz doesn’t get fazed too much,” veteran point guard Mike Conley said. “He does what he does. He has been huge for us, obviously. It’s good to get all our guys back and hopefully, we get KAT back soon.”
Reid came with greetings from his hometown of Asbury Park, N.J., home to another star nicknamed “The Boss,” Bruce Springsteen.
“For me, it’s like how long it has been going on,” Reid said. “People notice it now, but since my rookie year, it has been a thing. For me, it’s how long it has been going on. That’s just love.”
In a league where talent is abundant, Naz Reid’s journey stands out as a testament to resilience and determination. Undrafted and overlooked, he has carved out a place for himself through hard work and unwavering dedication. As he continues to shine on the court, his story serves as an inspiration to all those who face adversity in pursuit of their dreams.
Naz Reid Overcomes Adversity to Lead Timberwolves to Victory
On a fan giveaway night when a beach towel bared his name, Timberwolves big man Naz Reid faced a challenge that would test his resilience and determination. Despite being accidentally struck in the neck by a teammate, Reid continued to shoot and score, ultimately leading his team to a 104-91 victory over Cleveland at Target Center.
Teammate Rudy Gobert, who also returned to the lineup from injury, acknowledged Reid’s toughness and perseverance in the face of adversity. The Wolves’ cohesive play, marked by 27 assists, secured their fourth win in five games as they strive for first place in the competitive Western Conference.
Reid’s Remarkable Performance
With a record of 48-22, the Timberwolves are enjoying their most successful season in nearly two decades. Reid’s pivotal role in the team’s success was evident as he displayed skill, confidence, and energy throughout the game.
Despite the physical setback of being struck in the throat, Reid remained unfazed and continued to contribute to his team’s victory. His resilience and dedication to the game were exemplified by his ability to quickly recover and make crucial plays, including a game-changing three-pointer in the final minutes.
Embracing Support and Recognition
Throughout the game, fans showed their appreciation for Reid’s contributions by chanting his name and displaying enthusiasm for his performance. Reid, who has worked tirelessly to improve his game since going undrafted in 2019, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he received from the crowd.
Reid’s journey from an underrated player to a key contributor for the Timberwolves reflects his unwavering commitment to growth and development. His resilience in the face of challenges and his ability to rise above adversity have endeared him to teammates and fans alike.
Looking Ahead
As the Timberwolves continue their pursuit of success in the Western Conference, Reid’s leadership and determination will be crucial to their playoff aspirations. His ability to overcome obstacles and perform at a high level under pressure serves as an inspiration to his teammates and fans.
With each game, Reid’s impact on the team grows, solidifying his position as a valuable asset and a symbol of perseverance in the face of adversity. As he continues to evolve and improve, the future looks bright for Naz Reid and the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Naz Reid Leads Timberwolves to Victory Despite Neck Injury
On a fan giveaway night when a beach towel bared his name, Timberwolves big man Naz Reid was whacked in the neck accidentally by a teammate and kept shooting and scoring anyway, all the way to a 104-91 victory over Cleveland on Friday night at Target Center.
Aforementioned teammate Rudy Gobert and Reid returned to the lineup from injury on a night when the Wolves at times played small and moved the ball all over. They did so to the tune of 27 assists and their fourth victory in five games in their chase for first place in the Western Conference.
Minnesota is now 48-22, its most victories at this point in the season since the 2003-04 season that resulted in a trip to the Western Conference Finals.
Leading by single digits with less than three minutes remaining, Gobert tried to clear a free ball out of danger — and struck Reid in the head instead.
“It was a wild elbow,” Reid said playfully. “He’s lucky. He got away with one earlier, too. But I’m not going to say too much.”
Asked where Gobert struck him, Reid said, “In my throat, got me in the throat. I was cool. He got me, but it wasn’t crazy. I was fine.”
So fine that Reid simply ran down the floor and finished off a play in transition with a right corner three-pointer that gave the Wolves a 99-87 lead with 2:26 left, thanks to an assist from teammate Anthony Edwards.
“I just wanted to wake him up a little bit,” Gobert said. “I think my elbow hit his mouth and then I saw blue. I saw it was a blue jersey. Damn, but it’s part of the game. Naz is tough, a tough guy.”
The Cavaliers never pulled closer than 10 points in a game when they played without star Donovan Mitchell and the Wolves went forth without All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns.
It was Reid’s third and final three-pointer of the night. The Wolves as a team made 14 threes before a sellout crowd announced at 18,024.
Reid started at power forward next to Gobert at center, rather than his usual sixth-man spot, but then gave way to Kyle Anderson to start the second half because Wolves coach Chris Finch said he didn’t want Reid picking up a “cheap” fourth foul that would ruin his rhythm the rest of the night.
“It was a really good pass by Ant, he did a really good job, and Naz was shot ready,” Finch said. “Good to see that one go in because he has missed some really good looks earlier.”
Fans chanted his full name throughout the evening, after they had received the blue beach towels that were part of the team’s new lake-themed city edition uniforms this season.
“He has been an incredible story here, from Day 1,” Finch said. “How he’s changed his body, kept growing his game, plays with so much confidence and energy. Whether he starts or comes off the bench, teammates love him. His rebounding. He has so much skill. It’s fun to watch get better all the time.”
Asked afterward about the “Naz Reid” chants that resounded around the arena, Reid said: “Amazing, something you dream about, especially at this level in the NBA. That’s love. So much support. Everybody knows how hard I’ve worked since Day 1 till now and more to come.”
Reid was undrafted out of Louisiana State in 2019, but he spent summers in Minnesota improving his body and his game.
“Naz doesn’t get fazed too much,” veteran point guard Mike Conley said. “He does what he does. He has been huge for us, obviously. It’s good to get all our guys back and hopefully, we get KAT back soon.”
Reid came with greetings from his hometown of Asbury Park, N.J., home to another star nicknamed “The Boss,” Bruce Springsteen.
“For me, it’s like how long it has been going on,” Reid said. “People notice it now, but since my rookie year, it has been a thing. For me, it’s how long it has been going on. That’s just love.”
Naz Reid Leads Timberwolves to Victory Despite Neck Injury
On a fan giveaway night when a beach towel bared his name, Timberwolves big man Naz Reid was whacked in the neck accidentally by a teammate and kept shooting and scoring anyway, all the way to a 104-91 victory over Cleveland on Friday night at Target Center.
Aforementioned teammate Rudy Gobert and Reid returned to the lineup from injury on a night when the Wolves at times played small and moved the ball all over. They did so to the tune of 27 assists and their fourth victory in five games in their chase for first place in the Western Conference.
Minnesota is now 48-22, its most victories at this point in the season since the 2003-04 season that resulted in a trip to the Western Conference Finals.
Leading by single digits with less than three minutes remaining, Gobert tried to clear a free ball out of danger — and struck Reid in the head instead.
“It was a wild elbow,” Reid said playfully. “He’s lucky. He got away with one earlier, too. But I’m not going to say too much.”
Asked where Gobert struck him, Reid said, “In my throat, got me in the throat. I was cool. He got me, but it wasn’t crazy. I was fine.”
So fine that Reid simply ran down the floor and finished off a play in transition with a right corner three-pointer that gave the Wolves a 99-87 lead with 2:26 left, thanks to an assist from teammate Anthony Edwards.
“I just wanted to wake him up a little bit,” Gobert said. “I think my elbow hit his mouth and then I saw blue. I saw it was a blue jersey. Damn, but it’s part of the game. Naz is tough, a tough guy.”
“For me, it’s like how long it has been going on,” Reid said. “People notice it now, but since my rookie year, it has been a thing. For me, it’s how long it has been going on. That’s just love.”
Reid’s Resilience and Impact
Reid’s performance on the court despite the neck injury showcases his resilience and dedication to the game. His ability to stay focused and contribute to the team’s success highlights his importance to the Timberwolves.
Reid, who was undrafted out of Louisiana State in 2019, has proven himself through hard work and determination. His growth both physically and skill-wise has been evident, making him a valuable asset to the team.
Teammates and coaches alike praise Reid for his energy, confidence, and skill on the court. His impact on the game, whether as a starter or coming off the bench, is undeniable.
Looking Ahead
As the Timberwolves continue their pursuit of first place in the Western Conference, Reid’s performance serves as a reminder of the team’s depth and resilience. With key players returning from injury, including Reid and Gobert, the Wolves are poised for success in the remainder of the season.
Reid’s ability to overcome challenges and contribute to the team’s victories is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game. As fans chant his name and show their support, Reid remains focused on improving and making a difference on the court.
With each game, Reid’s impact grows, and his story continues to inspire those around him. As he reflects on his journey from an undrafted rookie to a key player for the Timberwolves, Reid’s determination and work ethic shine through, setting an example for aspiring athletes everywhere.
Naz Reid: The Rising Star of the Timberwolves
On a recent fan giveaway night, the spotlight was on Naz Reid, the talented big man of the Timberwolves. Despite a minor mishap where he was accidentally struck in the neck by a teammate, Reid showed resilience and determination, leading his team to a 104-91 victory over Cleveland.
Aforementioned teammate Rudy Gobert and Reid made a strong comeback from injury, contributing to the Wolves’ impressive performance. With 27 assists and their fourth win in five games, the team is making strides in the Western Conference.
At 48-22, the Timberwolves are enjoying one of their best seasons in years, reminiscent of their successful run in the 2003-04 season that saw them reach the Western Conference Finals.
Despite a close game, Gobert’s accidental hit only fueled Reid’s determination. “It was a wild elbow,” Reid joked, showing his toughness and dedication to the game.
Reid’s performance on the court was exceptional, including a crucial three-pointer that sealed the victory for the Wolves. His teammates and coach praised his skills and work ethic, highlighting his growth and impact on the team.
Reid’s journey from being undrafted to becoming a key player for the Timberwolves is a testament to his hard work and dedication. His hometown of Asbury Park, N.J., known for producing stars like Bruce Springsteen, has been a source of inspiration for him.
The Power of Support and Determination
Throughout the game, fans chanted Reid’s name, showing their appreciation for his efforts on the court. Reid’s response to the overwhelming support reflects his humility and gratitude for the opportunity to play at the highest level.
As veteran point guard Mike Conley noted, Reid’s composure and consistency have been crucial for the team’s success. His ability to stay focused and deliver when it matters most has earned him respect from his teammates and fans alike.
Reid’s journey serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and hard work in achieving success. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, his determination to improve and make an impact has propelled him to new heights in his career.
As the Timberwolves continue their pursuit of excellence, Reid’s story stands as a testament to the power of resilience, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to one’s craft.
Naz Reid Shines Bright in Timberwolves Victory
On a fan giveaway night when a beach towel bared his name, Timberwolves big man Naz Reid was whacked in the neck accidentally by a teammate and kept shooting and scoring anyway, all the way to a 104-91 victory over Cleveland on Friday night at Target Center.
Aforementioned teammate Rudy Gobert and Reid returned to the lineup from injury on a night when the Wolves at times played small and moved the ball all over. They did so to the tune of 27 assists and their fourth victory in five games in their chase for first place in the Western Conference.
Minnesota is now 48-22, its most victories at this point in the season since the 2003-04 season that resulted in a trip to the Western Conference Finals.
Leading by single digits with less than three minutes remaining, Gobert tried to clear a free ball out of danger — and struck Reid in the head instead.
“It was a wild elbow,” Reid said playfully. “He’s lucky. He got away with one earlier, too. But I’m not going to say too much.”
Asked where Gobert struck him, Reid said, “In my throat, got me in the throat. I was cool. He got me, but it wasn’t crazy. I was fine.”
So fine that Reid simply ran down the floor and finished off a play in transition with a right corner three-pointer that gave the Wolves a 99-87 lead with 2:26 left, thanks to an assist from teammate Anthony Edwards.
“I just wanted to wake him up a little bit,” Gobert said. “I think my elbow hit his mouth and then I saw blue. I saw it was a blue jersey. Damn, but it’s part of the game. Naz is tough, a tough guy.”
The Cavaliers never pulled closer than 10 points in a game when they played without star Donovan Mitchell and the Wolves went forth without All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns.
It was Reid’s third and final three-pointer of the night. The Wolves as a team made 14 threes before a sellout crowd announced at 18,024.
Reid started at power forward next to Gobert at center, rather than his usual sixth-man spot, but then gave way to Kyle Anderson to start the second half because Wolves coach Chris Finch said he didn’t want Reid picking up a “cheap” fourth foul that would ruin his rhythm the rest of the night.
“It was a really good pass by Ant, he did a really good job, and Naz was shot ready,” Finch said. “Good to see that one go in because he has missed some really good looks earlier.”
Reid’s Journey to Success
Reid was undrafted out of Louisiana State in 2019, but he spent summers in Minnesota improving his body and his game.
“Naz doesn’t get fazed too much,” veteran point guard Mike Conley said. “He does what he does. He has been huge for us, obviously. It’s good to get all our guys back and hopefully, we get KAT back soon.”
Reid came with greetings from his hometown of Asbury Park, N.J., home to another star nicknamed “The Boss,” Bruce Springsteen.
“For me, it’s like how long it has been going on,” Reid said. “People notice it now, but since my rookie year, it has been a thing. For me, it’s how long it has been going on. That’s just love.”
Embracing the Support
Fans chanted his full name throughout the evening, after they had received the blue beach towels that were part of the team’s new lake-themed city edition uniforms this season.
“He has been an incredible story here, from Day 1,” Finch said. “How he’s changed his body, kept growing his game, plays with so much confidence and energy. Whether he starts or comes off the bench, teammates love him. His rebounding. He has so much skill. It’s fun to watch get better all the time.”
Asked afterward about the “Naz Reid” chants that resounded around the arena, Reid said: “Amazing, something you dream about, especially at this level in the NBA. That’s love. So much support. Everybody knows how hard I’ve worked since Day 1 till now and more to come.”
Overall, Naz Reid’s resilience and determination on the court have not only earned him the respect of his teammates and fans but have also solidified his place as a key player in the Timberwolves’ pursuit of success in the Western Conference.