Minnesota Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo found himself at the center of a heated argument with Knicks assistant coach Rick Brunson following the Knicks’ 115-110 preseason win Sunday night. This marked DiVincenzo’s first appearance at Madison Square Garden since being traded to New York.
Court Feud Between DiVincenzo and Brunson
After the final whistle, the players and coaching staff of both sides were holding hands and hugging in the usual way. However, DiVincenzo and Rick Brunson, the father of Knicks star player Jalen Brunson, had a heated exchange of words on the Garden court.
DiVincenzo was caught on camera talking to Brunson, saying, “I was talking to Thibs.” This conflict came after DiVincenzo was on the court yelling at the Knicks sideline while on the free throw line.
DiVincenzo’s Postgame Remarks
After the game, DiVincenzo, who finished the game with an impressive 15 points and seven assists, declined to divulge the details of his sideline exchange and suggested he was sharing an inside joke with Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau. Regarding his altercation with Rick Brunson after the game, he chose not to comment, expressing that he wanted to discuss the matter privately.
The Return of All-Stars Is Upon Us
The incident involving DiVincenzo somehow overshadowed the long-awaited return of All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns and two-time All-NBA forward Julius Randle to the Garden. Towns, playing with his old team for the first time in nine seasons, managed 16 points and 16 rebounds. Meanwhile, Randle, who is recovering from right shoulder surgery, did not appear in the game.
During the first halftime, the Knicks organization played a video tribute to Randle and DiVincenzo on the stadium’s jumbotron.
DiVincenzo, who set the franchise record for most 3-pointers in a season during his time with the Knicks, was a key part of last season’s team. His collegiate career at Villanova saw him play alongside Brunson, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges, all of whom are currently Knicks players.
DiVincenzo’s relationship with the Brunsons
Jalen Brunson was seen comforting DiVincenzo during the post-game altercation, a testament to their strong relationship. When asked about the incident between his father and DiVincenzo, Jalen said, “It was words of affirmation.” Earlier she was seen fighting with DiVincenzo, who was the groom in her wedding.
DiVincenzo spoke about his relationship with Jalen, describing him as his “brother and best friend.” He emphasized his intention to discuss their relationship privately.
Praise for DiVincenzo’s Competitive Spirit
Anthony Edwards, the Timberwolves’ star player, applauded DiVincenzo’s competitive spirit and aggressive game play. “You can’t be mad at him, man,” Edwards said, discussing DiVincenzo’s performance. “He makes all the right plays and shoots cover on the ball. New York will definitely miss him.”
Other Timberwolves players also shared their emotional rollercoaster night. Edwards called Towns “his brother,” while Timberwolves coach Chris Finch admitted it will take some getting used to seeing Towns in a different uniform. “It’s like a death in the family in some ways,” Finch said. “Once we get started, it will be business as usual.”
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