via Imago
NBA, Basketball Herren, USA Playoffs-Denver Nuggets at Minnesota Timberwolves Apr 23, 2023 Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards 1 and owner Alex Rodriguez celebrate after the win of game four of the 2023 NBA Playoffs against the Denver Nuggets at Target Center. Minneapolis Target Center Minnesota USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xMattxKrohnx 20230423_cec_hw1_372
via Imago
NBA, Basketball Herren, USA Playoffs-Denver Nuggets at Minnesota Timberwolves Apr 23, 2023 Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards 1 and owner Alex Rodriguez celebrate after the win of game four of the 2023 NBA Playoffs against the Denver Nuggets at Target Center. Minneapolis Target Center Minnesota USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xMattxKrohnx 20230423_cec_hw1_372
In a cut-throat competition where every edge makes a difference, the Minnesota Timberwolves are leaving no stone unturned. Inspired by NBA legend Pat Riley, the Wolves are adopting a culture of discipline and exceptional training under the ownership of former MLB sensation Alex Rodriguez.
Rodriguez has helped the Wolves roster prepare for the season physically as well as mentally. They are currently fighting the Denver Nuggets in Round 2 of playoffs with a lead of 2-0. On the ‘Dane Moore NBA Podcast,’ he talked about the journey. The effects of this training can be observed in star player Anthony Edwards amongst others.
Getting the Wolves in shape
In the latest podcast episode, host Dane Moore welcomed Alex Rodriguez. Discussing the Wolves’ plan for Game 3 against the Denver Nuggets, he talked about the obvious effects of fitness on a player’s performance. “The team that is most disciplined and in the best condition usually wins,” he emphasized while crediting mentors like Pat Riley and others.
USA Today via Reuters
Apr 23, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert (27) and owner Alex Rodriguez celebrate after the win of game four of the 2023 NBA Playoffs against the Denver Nuggets at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports
The Wolves’ remarkable change in body composition is evidence of their dedication to training. According to Rodriguez, this season the team has an astounding four players with 3% body fat. “Last year we had zero players of our 15 players with 3% body fat. This year, we have four.” This change is a testament to the team’s commitment to honing their physical abilities. Rodriguez said, “When you look at the team and why we’ve been so good in the fourth quarter, I think it’s our mental discipline and our conditioning. And of course, Coach Finch and his staff have done a tremendous job as well.”
This enhanced dedication to fitness has produced visible results, especially during critical moments. Amongst the team’s overall growth, Anthony Edwards’s transformation has been especially noticeable. Rudy Gobert had even pointed out how one’s eating habits could impact his performance on the court and Edwards’ improvement there was rather felt subconsciously.
Anthony Edwards makes the example
Back in the podcast, Host Dane Moore examined Edwards’ quick growth, highlighting the rookie’s ascent to prominence in the league. Moore expressed admiration for the player and his influence at such a young age, saying he is “one of those dudes already,” implying that ANT is now a big name in the league. He then asked Rodriguez what he felt had contributed to ANT’s success in the league.
The Wolves owner seemed to be enamored by the player’s brilliance. He said, “I mean when his head hits the backboard on a winning play…like that is so freaking unique and we’re so lucky to have a guy like Anthony Edwards right here.” ANT has averaged 25.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 3.1 turnovers in 35.1 minutes this season. This is the player’s fourth professional season and he is only 22 years old.
The Timberwolves continue to grow through a combination of outstanding training, mental toughness, and the support of emerging talent such as Anthony Edwards. Witnessing the rise of an emerging star player like Edwards is an exciting event for all. He takes on the Denver Nuggets tonight at 9:30 pm EST.
