The Minnesota Timberwolves have just pulled off a massive upset, taking a 2-1 series lead over the Golden State Warriors in their first-round matchup. After a hard-fought battle, the Wolves emerged victorious in a 118-112 win, putting the defending champions on the ropes and shifting the momentum squarely in their favor. For many, this was a game they’ll remember as the moment the Timberwolves truly announced themselves as contenders.
The game started with a sense of urgency for both teams. The Warriors, looking to even the series after dropping Game 2 at home, came out firing. Stephen Curry, as usual, was the focal point of their offense, putting up 20 points in the first half. Klay Thompson followed suit, contributing timely buckets from beyond the arc, and Draymond Green provided the defensive anchor and playmaking the team so often leans on.
But Minnesota’s response was nothing short of spectacular. Led by a dominant performance from Anthony Edwards, the Wolves showcased their depth and physicality. Edwards, the young star who has quickly become one of the most exciting players in the league, posted 34 points and 9 rebounds, proving he’s more than ready to shoulder the burden in a playoff atmosphere. His aggressive drives to the basket, coupled with his ability to stretch the floor with timely three-pointers, kept the Warriors on their heels all night.
Karl-Anthony Towns, the Wolves’ big man and offensive cornerstone, also stepped up in a big way. His 27 points and 12 rebounds were crucial, especially in the second half when the Warriors tried to rally back. Towns was able to exploit mismatches in the post and was a reliable presence on the boards, providing Minnesota with key second-chance opportunities.
The real difference-maker, however, was Minnesota’s defense. The Timberwolves managed to disrupt Golden State’s offensive flow, particularly their three-point shooting. The Warriors, a team known for their deadly perimeter shooting, were held to just 9-of-32 from deep, a far cry from their usual numbers. The Wolves’ perimeter defenders, including Jaden Ivey and Jarred Vanderbilt, gave Curry and Thompson little space to operate, forcing them into contested shots and disrupting their rhythm.
The defensive adjustments made by head coach Chris Finch were evident throughout the game. Minnesota packed the paint, making it difficult for Golden State to get easy looks inside, while also applying constant pressure on the Warriors’ shooters on the perimeter. This suffocating defense seemed to wear on the Warriors, who struggled to find their usual free-flowing offense.
Despite their efforts, the Warriors couldn’t get over the hump. Even when Curry and Thompson began to heat up in the final minutes, cutting the Timberwolves’ lead down to just a few points, Minnesota had the composure to close it out. Edwards hit crucial free throws down the stretch, and Towns sealed the game with a clutch defensive rebound and an outlet pass to end Golden State’s hopes of a comeback.
Now, with a 2-1 series lead, the Wolves find themselves in the driver’s seat. Golden State is a dangerous team, and their championship pedigree should never be underestimated, but Minnesota has proven they’re capable of taking control of the series. The pressure is now on the Warriors to respond and avoid falling into a deeper hole, while the Timberwolves will look to extend their lead and put themselves on the verge of advancing to the next round.
The series is far from over, but for the Wolves, this win represents a major statement. Can they carry this momentum forward? Only time will tell, but for now, they have Golden State right where they want them.
