Timberwolves Stage Epic Comeback Against Rockets, Sealing Victory with Anthony Edwards’ Clutch Three-Pointer
2024-12-28
Author: Wai
HOUSTON – In a thrilling display of resilience, the Minnesota Timberwolves capped off the largest fourth-quarter comeback on the road in 21 years, stunning the Houston Rockets with a 113-112 victory.
The cherry on top? A sensational step-back three-pointer from Anthony Edwards, who described the shot as “my favorite shot of my career” with just 23.2 seconds remaining in the game.
The Timberwolves entered Houston swirling in frustration after experiencing travel delays that had left them irritable.
Yet, they exited the court jubilant, savoring what could be one of the most pivotal wins of their season.
“We stuck together,” exclaimed Donte DiVincenzo, whose strong performance included 22 points. “They pushed it to 16, and the togetherness in the timeout was crucial. We didn’t let external pressures affect us.”
The crucial timeout came when the Timberwolves were trailing 101-86 with just over seven minutes to go.
The Rockets' relentless energy was palpable, especially as Alperen Sengun dominated with 38 points, showcasing an arsenal that included impressive post moves that often went uncalled.
Despite their recent struggles, which saw them lose three of the last four games, the Timberwolves refused to be defeated by the daunting deficit.
Mike Conley and Coach Chris Finch adopted an encouraging approach in the huddle, emphasizing teamwork and maintaining a positive mindset.
Edwards noted, “The coaches didn’t come in there screaming; they asked us to focus on getting good shots. I’m grateful for my team. They showed a ton of poise and confidence in the final minutes.”
The team's collective resolve was palpable, and the players sensed that this victory could be a turning point in their season.
“We know the expectations are high, and everyone feels it, but we must focus on staying united,” DiVincenzo added.
Key moments in the frantic final minutes included a successful challenge by the Timberwolves on a Naz Reid layup, which stoked their momentum and cut the lead to 10.
Reid played a vital role in the Wolves' explosive 18-4 run that left the crowd in disbelief. Meanwhile, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, recovering from an illness, found his rhythm just in time, scoring eight crucial points in the fourth quarter.
Coach Chris Finch made strategic choices in the lineup, opting for a more offensive arrangement as he benched Conley and Rudy Gobert, who struggled defensively against Sengun.
This tactical maneuver paid off; Julius Randle lit up the court with 27 points, inching closer to a triple-double with eight rebounds and assists.
“We never thought we were out of it,” Randle remarked.
“We just needed to string some stops together because we felt good about our offensive capabilities.”
The Timberwolves’ comeback magic continued despite some hiccups, including a brief struggle with their starting lineup.
But they stayed resolute, drawing on Sengun’s missed free throws as an opportunity. Edwards made the most of an ensuing scramble, nailing a well-calculated three-pointer.
“I rarely go for the tie,” said Edwards.
“As soon as I caught it, I knew I was going for the three-pointer. It was just a matter of whether I would take a regular pull-up or a step-back.”
Finch praised Edwards' confidence and skill: “It looked good right away. His rhythm and balance on that shot were exceptional.”
What followed was a nail-biting sequence where the Rockets, opting not to call a timeout, initiated a final play that placed Sengun in a key position.
With Finch's instruction to double-team, Edwards instinctively closed out, showcasing the chemistry built over five years with his teammates.
This electrifying comeback wasn't just about the victory, but also a testament to the Timberwolves’ growth.
The win sparked jubilant celebrations post-game; the Wolves' joyous locker room echoed with the beats of “Hold On” by Glorilla, reinforcing that this moment was more than just a game—it was a statement.
As the Timberwolves prepare for their next challenge, this unforgettable performance against the Rockets could very well serve as the springboard they need for a promising season ahead.
Hold onto your seats, because the Timberwolves may just be heating up!