Kevin Garnett has made a lasting mark on many players throughout his 21-year career in the NBA, and while he only spent his last with Karl-Anthony Towns, the impact has been life-changing for the reigning Rookie of the Year.
“The personal impact KG has had on me is life-changing,” Towns told NBPA's Jared Zwerling. “He’s been the most important piece to my career in the NBA and one of the best friendships I have in my life. So I’m always blessed to say that he’s my brother. We bonded so well because of how passionate and emotional we both are.
The 7-foot Kentucky product reminisced about his best memories with the Minnesota Timberwolves legend.
“My favorite memory of Kevin Garnett is not a memory—it’s more of the experience I had with him for a year, just enjoying that moment of being his teammate, conversing with him every single day, learning from him every single day,” he said. “There’s no price that you can pay, no money that can buy you the experience that I’ve been gifted with my first year in the NBA.”
Towns reflected on the impact the Big Ticket has had in his overall game and molding him from a rookie to a pro.
“Offensively, KG has taught me how to be patient, how to pick my spots better and how to use my body better and more efficiently. With those teachings he gave me, I’m able to stay healthy and use my energy in better places,” said Towns. “Then on defense, KG has taught me how important it is to be in the right position at the right time, and also little tips and tricks of how he’s been Defensive Player of the Year.”
Lastly, Towns was extremely appreciative of the legacy Garnett leaves behind and the effect it will have on future generations that watched him play.
“Other than basketball, I just come to KG for advice on life, just understanding how business works and understanding how I can be a better leader and also be a better human being,” said Towns. “Kevin’s impact on the NBA has been felt around generations, including mine. His tenacity, his passion, his love for the game, the energy he brought every single night is something that will be felt for generations to come, possibly forever.”
Kevin Garnett averaged 17.8 points, 10 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game — but he left a long-lasting mark on the game that transcends statistics, which was playing like his heart was on fire during every minute of his NBA career.
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