Kevin Garnett is probably the greatest Timberwolves player of All-Time. But 13 years after his departure from the team, his jersey has yet to be retired by the franchise.
In a conversation with Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic, Wolves owner Glen Taylor explained why:
“The Timberwolves would retire Garnett’s jersey tomorrow if they could. He is far and away the most accomplished and most popular player to ever suit up here. The lone stretch of modest success enjoyed by the team was in KG’s prime,” wrote Krawczynski. “There appeared at one point to be a possible thawing of the iciness as recently as last season. But Garnett remains upset at owner Glen Taylor for the way things ended and a promise that he believes was broken.”
It was the Wolves who moved on from KG after coming off a 32-50 season. They felt it was time for a new direction and, so, they elected to trade Garnett to Boston. Obviously, he had his reservations about it.
“I never requested a trade because I viewed ‘Sota as mine,” Garnett told The Athletic last season. “I built this house. I’m not leaving this god damn house. You can get the f*ck up out of here. You don’t like it, then leave.”
Because of the breakup, Garnett and the organization have never been the same. And, until something gets resolved, it is unlikely that Garnett will ever see his name hanging in the rafters.
