Rodriguez and Lore Introduce Themselves as Timberwolves Owners

LAS VEGAS — Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore, the new owners of the Minnesota Timberwolves, are ready to introduce themselves to fans and the media during a press conference on Friday afternoon. The event is scheduled for 2:15 p.m. at the Strip View Pavilion amid the NBA Summer League.

The pair finalized the purchase of the Timberwolves and the WNBA’s Minnesota Lynx for $1.5 billion in late June. They are set to address questions about their vision for the teams, including concerns about player acquisitions and the future of the franchises in Minnesota.

The press conference comes a day after the team’s Summer League players secured their first win against the New Orleans Pelicans. Fans are excited about the team’s prospects, especially with the draft pick of college star Jaylen Clark, who has shown promise despite recovering from an injury.

Craig Scanzio, a Boston resident and avid Timberwolves fan, praised Clark’s performance. “He looked good today. He’s moving around well and playing good defense,” Scanzio said. Alongside Clark, star Anthony Edwards is expected to further enhance the team’s competitive edge.

After experiencing the most successful stretch in franchise history, reaching the conference finals in consecutive seasons, many fans are optimistic about the new ownership. “It’s been an overall upgrade and that resonates. Energy like that helps elevate everybody,” said Cameron Retterath, who traveled to Las Vegas from Plymouth, Minnesota.

Rodriguez, a Major League Baseball legend, and Lore, a successful businessman, faced challenges in acquiring the teams, including a lengthy dispute with former owner Glen Taylor. They officially took control of the Timberwolves and Lynx after a vote by the NBA Board of Governors on June 24.

Following Friday’s press conference, the duo will serve as Co-Chairmen, with Lore as the Timberwolves Governor and Rodriguez as Alternate Governor. For the Lynx, Rodriguez will also serve as Governor, with Lore as Alternate Governor.

Fans are eager to see how the new ownership will impact the future of the franchise, with questions remaining about team direction and potential stadium developments.