Timberwolves’ Players-Only Meeting And Group Chat Spark Key Turnaround

After a strong playoff run last season, the Timberwolves were expecting big things in 2024-25. However, a rocky start to the campaign, including a four-game losing streak in November, had many questioning whether the team could build on their Western Conference Finals appearance.

But the Timberwolves have since regained their form, winning five of their last six games, and much of the turnaround can be attributed to a newfound emphasis on communication both on and off the court.

A turning point came after a late-game incident in Toronto, where Julius Randle failed to get Rudy Gobert the ball in a critical moment, leading to frustration between the two.

Following that game, the team held a player-only meeting, per Chris Hine of the Star Tribune, and since then, they’ve placed a higher value on open dialogue — especially within their group chat.

Guard Donte DiVincenzo spoke about the importance of their virtual space.

“That’s essentially our safe space,” DiVincenzo said. “Everybody knows whatever you say in there stays in there. More so like 90% of the time you’re joking around, messing around, sending funny stuff back and forth, picking on each other. Then when [stuff] hits the fan, that’s where most guys feel comfortable being able to express what they’re thinking.”

The impact of the player-only meeting and group chat has been noticeable, as the Timberwolves have become more cohesive, and tensions have eased. Head coach Chris Finch emphasized that it’s not just about what happens on the court, but how they come together as a team off of it.

“That’s been key for us,” Finch said. “The communication has really taken a step forward.”

As Minnesota continues to gain momentum, it’s clear that the Timberwolves’ success isn’t just coming from better play, but from stronger connections and open, honest conversations that are helping them grow together as a team.

• More Timberwolves | All coverage from Hoops Wire