Kevin Garnett made a triumphant return to Target Center on Sunday as the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 132-126 in their regular-season finale. The Hall of Fame forward, making his first appearance at the arena in eight years, received a standing ovation from fans during the team's appreciation night.

Garnett walked into the arena alongside Timberwolves co-owners Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez after player introductions, patting his heart in response to the crowd's roar. The franchise icon, who holds nearly every major statistical record in team history, hugged current star Anthony Edwards before taking his courtside seat. Garnett had previously had a falling out with former owner Glen Taylor but reached an agreement last year to serve as a team ambassador, with his No. 21 jersey set to be retired at a later date.

The Timberwolves, locked into the No. 6 seed in the Western Conference, rested nine of their top 10 players for the postseason. Rookie Joan Beringer led the way with 24 points, 12 rebounds, and seven blocks, while fan favorite Joe Ingles contributed 15 points and 10 assists in his token start.