LaMelo Ball praised the Minnesota Timberwolves’ defensive effort and spoke about adjusting to his new teammates after his regular-season debut in front of the Target Center crowd on Sunday.
Minnesota defeated the Toronto Raptors 117-94 to improve to 3-0, extending its winning margin to at least 20 points in each of its first three games. Ball finished with 15 points, eight assists and four three-pointers in 17 minutes, with foul trouble limiting his playing time.
Asked about the atmosphere during his first game at Target Center, Ball said the crowd made a strong impression.
“Yeah, I mean, it felt great. Energy was high, vibes was high. We got the finish,” Ball said.
Ball picked up three fouls early but explained that he remained focused on making an impact whenever he returned to the floor.
“I always just keep a rhythm. I know the game, it’s a long game,” he said. “It’s always two halves of every basketball game. So, throw away the first half, second half, try to make an impact.”
The Timberwolves have also impressed with their defense, holding Toronto to 38% shooting from the field and 26% from three-point range. Scottie Barnes went 0-for-12 from the floor, while Minnesota outrebounded the Raptors 49-34.
Ball credited the team’s collective effort for sustaining its defensive intensity.
“Feeding off of one another. I mean, we all moving around out there. Everybody playing for one another. So that’s how you do it,” he said.
Asked about the defensive pressure that helped limit Barnes, Ball pointed to Minnesota’s versatility.
“It’s a lot of defenders on this team that can switch,” he said.
Ball also praised Terrence Shannon Jr., highlighting his ability to attack the basket and contribute from the perimeter.
“Yeah, know TJ got a whole lot of talent. He’s amazing. I mean, he can drive like no other. Left is super strong. Get to the rack, shoot the three. I love how TJ play,” Ball said. “And on the defensive end, he can get to it too. So yeah, he’s a great player.”
The point guard also discussed building chemistry with new teammates, including teaching them to anticipate his passes in transition. Ball joked that he had tried to hit teammates in the head with passes during their first practice together.
“Actually, I tried to hit them in the head a couple times first day. You know, you get that in the head one time, you always have your head up,” he said.
Ball spoke highly of head coach Chris Finch, whom he already knew through his brother, Lonzo Ball.
“He’s been great. I love Finch, man. He’s a great dude. He used to coach my brother, so me and Zo be talking about him a little, but yeah, great dude. Love him.”
Despite Minnesota’s dominant start, Ball emphasized the importance of staying focused on the next game rather than looking too far ahead.
“Yeah, I think we real dangerous, but we’re going to keep on taking it one game at a time. Got a game tomorrow. Try to go in there and handle business,” he said.
The Timberwolves travel to Cleveland on Monday to face the Cavaliers as they look to extend their unbeaten start to the season.
