Karl-Anthony Towns’ heartfelt goodbye to Timberwolves after Knicks trade: ‘My family’

Karl-Anthony Towns shared a heartfelt goodbye to the Timberwolves on social media Wednesday. 

The four-time All-Star was dealt to the Knicks last Friday after nine seasons in Minnesota, and the trade became official on Wednesday.

“Nine years ago, I arrived in Minnesota as a young man with a dream. Little did I know that this place would become my home, and its people would become my family,” Towns wrote. “Your love, support, and unwavering loyalty have fueled my journey and inspired me to be the best player I could be.

“Thank you to my teammates, coaches, and the entire Timberwolves organization for the countless opportunities and experiences. I’ll cherish the friendships I’ve made and the battles we’ve fought together.

“To the incredible fans, your support has meant the world to me. It gave me strength on and off the court. I’ll never forget it.

“You’ll always hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for everything.”

Towns also shared a video of his time with the Timberwolves, which included clips of the team taking him No. 1 overall in the 2015 NBA Draft and Minnesota’s 2024 playoff run. 

The Knicks acquired the star big man for Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo and a lottery-protected first-round pick, among other minor pieces.

After news broke of the shocking blockbuster trade on Friday night, Towns had a much more muted response to being dealt from the only NBA team he’s ever played for, simply writing “…” on X. 

The Athletic’s Timberwolves beat writer Jon Krawczynski reported that Towns’ camp was “stunned” by the deal and that he “did not request this trade.”

Towns, who was born and raised in New Jersey, averaged 21.8 points and 8.3 rebounds per game for Minnesota last season.