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In addition to a solid victory, the Minnesota Timberwolves welcomed Rudy Gobert back to the lineup on NBA Sundays.
After missing the previous ten games of the 2024-25 season due to lower back injury management, the 32-year-old French center played nearly 20 minutes as the starting center. He made a significant impact, scoring 16 points with a shooting efficiency of 7/8 from two-point range, alongside eight rebounds, two steals, and two assists in a 141-124 triumph over the San Antonio Spurs at the Target Center.
“It was really tough for me not to be on the court,” he reflected on his three-week absence. “I had to ensure my return was strong and that I didn’t rush back too soon only to get sidelined again.”
“I wouldn’t suit up if I didn’t feel like I could be myself,” he added. “Playing through discomfort is part of the sport, but there are different kinds of pain. Some discomfort limits your movement and can worsen, while other pain signifies that you’re only going to improve from here. Right now, I feel strong, balanced, and capable of moving the way I need to. It was the right time for my return, and I’m pleased with how the game went.”
With this win, the team under Chris Finch notched their fifth consecutive victory, raising their record to 37-29 as they vie for a direct spot in the 2025 Playoffs.
“I just need to focus on being myself and excelling at what I do, both offensively and defensively,” Gobert emphasized in a media conference after Sunday’s game.
Jaime Garza, cleared from a left ankle sprain, contributed four points and one rebound in just two minutes. Meanwhile, Dutch player Jesse Edwards was on assignment with the G League’s Iowa Wolves.
For the Spurs, Georgian Sandro Mamukelashvili came off the bench, scoring eight points along with three rebounds, two assists, one block, and one steal. Fellow substitute Jeremy Sochan from Poland recorded five points, three rebounds, and a steal. French player Victor Wembanyama remained sidelined due to right shoulder deep vein thrombosis.
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