In a heartfelt gesture, veteran Joe Ingles of the Minnesota Timberwolves returned to the starting lineup on March 22, 2025, for the first time in three years, not just because of an injury hiccup or a need for fresh legs but for a deeply personal reason involving his son.
The 37-year-old Ingles, known for his exceptional skills on the court, has seen his playing time dwindle this season to a mere six minutes per game. However, Timberwolves coach Chris Finch decided to give Ingles the momentous start against the New Orleans Pelicans, allowing his autistic son, Jacob Ingles, to witness his father's presence in a way he hadn’t been able to before.
This touching arrangement followed Jacob's recent visit to Minnesota along with his mother, Renae Ingles, and their two siblings. Unlike previous occasions where Jacob struggled to follow the game for long spans, this time he was eager to stay and watch his father play. Yet, as the game unfolded, Jacob’s excitement turned to disappointment when Ingles did not make it onto the court.
“I just thought it would be great for him to see me out there, especially since he’s been attending games and had such a desire to watch,” said Ingles after the game. “It means a lot for him to be a part of this, and I wanted this moment to happen for him.”
Ingles played for just over six minutes in the game, finishing with one assist and attempting three shots without success. While the numbers don’t reflect the stellar performance he once showcased during his earlier years in the NBA, the real victory lay in the emotional significance of the event—not only for Joseph Ingles but also for many of the fans who witnessed the moment.
Although Ingles struggled to convert his shots during this game, what mattered most was the experience his son had. “To see my dad on the court is a precious memory I'll cherish forever,” said Jacob, beaming with joy as tears welled in his eyes. The family moment was not lost on the crowd, with many fans standing and cheering as the veteran finally took the floor.
Ingles last suited up on March 7, 2025, playing just three seconds at the end of that game, reflecting a challenging season for him as injuries have sidelined the once-regular player. Since his time with the Utah Jazz, where he became known for his playmaking abilities, he has transitioned to a different role with the Timberwolves, now serving more as a mentor than a principal player on the team.
It’s not only about the game on the court for Joe Ingles; it’s also about bringing more awareness to autism and inspiring others. “I hope more people begin to pay attention to and care about children with autism,” he expressed sincerely. “These moments inspire me to keep pushing, not just for myself but for kids like Jacob.”
The on-court moment serves not only as a memorable highlight for the Ingles family but also provides a rare glimpse of the love and support surrounding autistic children in sports beyond just the outcome of the game.
As fans continue to engage and respond to such heartwarming gestures, it’s clear that moments like this go beyond basketball. They become stories of hope, resilience, and understanding that ripple through communities, inspiring countless children and their families.
Joe Ingles’ role may have morphed over the years, but his impact—whether facilitating plays on the court or advocating for autism awareness—carries a weight that extends past the hardwood. When asked about his future and how long he might keep playing, he replied, “As long as I can contribute, and as long as I can provide moments like this for my family, I’ll keep playing.”
