Naz Reid spent eight years building a strong connection with Minnesota Timberwolves fans, making his trade to the Charlotte Hornets an emotional change for both sides.
The former undrafted forward joined Minnesota on a two-way contract in 2019 before gradually developing into one of the NBA’s most productive reserves. His rise culminated with the 2024 Sixth Man of the Year award.
“It’s kind of dedication and testament to my work. They’ve seen it since Day 1,” Reid said.
“I mentioned it all the time. They’ve seen me go undrafted, they’ve seen me work my way to some playing time minutes – whether it’s 15 minutes a game, 10 minutes a game – and they’ve seen me working my way to it going to 20 minutes and so forth and so on.
“So, Sixth Man of the Year, I couldn’t have that without those fans and the situation I was in. I’m definitely excited to share that moment with them.”
Reid said the reaction to his departure showed just how much the relationship with Minnesota supporters had grown over the years.
“And then obviously having the moment of me being traded and then them expressing their feelings about how much they wish I was able to stay and so forth and so on. So, it’s just kudos to that fan base.
“And like I said, the way they appreciated me, the way that they’ve embraced me since day one. I worked with them for eight years, and each year wasn’t easy. Each year was tough. It got better, obviously.
“They’ve been in situations where stands weren’t filled to where they are now. And I’ve been in that same element with them. Being the longest-tenured player there, they’ve seen the work that I put in for eight years. And they kind of, I guess, appreciated that.”
ICYMI: Naz Reid spoke about his connection with fans in Minnesota, being traded to Charlotte, and his expectations with the Hornets: https://t.co/ceYVcrH3MJ
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) August 7, 2026
