Kevin Garnett describes what he wants his new role to be in Minnesota

Kevin Garnett’s return to the Minnesota Timberwolves last month marked the end of a years-long estrangement between the franchise and its most significant player. Now, the Hall of Famer is beginning to outline what his new role in the organization will look like — while ownership continues to present his legacy as the foundation of everything the team stands for.

Speaking recently at KG Certified, Garnett said his focus as a team ambassador is on impact rather than titles, especially when it comes to working directly with the current roster.

“I want to be able to influence some players. I love McDaniels, I love Naz Reed, obviously Ant Man. I think I can bring something. So it’s just a good look,” Garnett said.

Garnett added that his decision to re-engage with the Timberwolves was shaped by discussions with the franchise’s new ownership group, led by Alec Rodriguez and Mark Lorre.

“It’s a good starter. I like what Alex and Mark are talking about. When you make something, you want to go back, see what it’s like,” Garnett said.

Rodriguez has previously emphasized how important Garnett’s presence is to the organization, recently comparing Garnett’s importance to the Timberwolves to Babe Ruth’s legacy with the New York Yankees. The comparison underscored the owners’ belief that renewing their connection with Garnett is not merely symbolic, but essential to reconnecting the franchise’s past with its present.

Kevin Garnett embraces a new role as the Timberwolves close a long-running chapter

While Garnett did not define a formal role in basketball operations, he indicated that his involvement will include community outreach and hands-on engagement with players. His comments suggest a mentorship-driven presence built on shared experience and credibility rather than a front-office position.

Garnett’s return follows years of separation related to his strained relationship with his former owner Glen Taylor. The rift began after Garnett was traded to the Boston Celtics in 2007 and deepened after his retirement in 2016, when a disagreement over a potential ownership stake led Garnett to cut ties with the organization. During that stretch, he avoided Target Center and turned down multiple attempts to retire.

That dynamic changed with the arrival of Rodriguez and Lore, who made repairing the relationship a priority after taking control of the franchise. Garnett has since retired his No. 21 jerseywhich is expected to be raised to the rafters later, formally reclaiming his place in Timberwolves history.

Drafted fifth overall in 1995, Garnett was the first player in two decades to enter the NBA straight out of high school. He spent 13 seasons in Minnesota over two stints, becoming the face of the franchise and one of the most dominant hitters in league history. He won the NBA MVP award in 2004 and led the Minnesota Timberwolves to their only appearance in the Western Conference Finals.

Garnett’s return comes as Minnesota continues to build momentum on the court. The Timberwolves (25-13) enter the weekend on a four-game winning streak and will look to keep that momentum going on Saturday as they travel to Ohio for a one-game road trip against the Cleveland Cavaliers (21-18). Tipoff is set for 1:00 PM ET on Prime Video.

For Kevin Garnett, the role is still taking shape. For the franchise, his presence represents a long-awaited alignment between its history, its leadership and its future.