Julius Randle’s journey in the NBA has never been short on twists, but the latest chapter in his career with the Minnesota Timberwolves is turning heads for all the right reasons. On September 4, 2025, Randle opened up about a personal breakthrough that’s not only changed his game but also his life off the court. After being traded from the New York Knicks, Randle made a conscious decision to quit marijuana and embrace therapy—a move he says has given him a new level of mental clarity and focus, both as a player and as a person.
“I realized I needed to prioritize my health and mental well-being,” Randle shared, reflecting on the months since his departure from New York. The 28-year-old forward didn’t mince words about the impact of his past habits, admitting that substance use had left him feeling disconnected and less present with those who matter most. “It’s about being there, really being there, for my family and my team,” he emphasized.
This candid self-reflection seems to have paid off in a big way. Randle’s numbers last season speak for themselves: he averaged 18.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.7 assists over 69 games—a solid showing by any metric. But it’s in the playoffs where he truly turned up the heat, bumping his scoring to an impressive 21.7 points per game. That playoff surge didn’t go unnoticed; HoopsHype recently ranked him as the 7th-best power forward in the NBA for the 2025-26 season. Not bad for a guy who, just a year ago, was grappling with the weight of expectations and the pressure cooker that is New York basketball.
So what’s changed? According to Randle, it all comes down to a holistic approach. He’s not just putting in extra hours at the gym—he’s overhauled his diet, embraced disciplined training routines, and, perhaps most importantly, taken time to work on his mental health. “It’s not just about basketball. It’s about the whole picture—how you live, how you think, how you show up every day,” Randle explained. That mindset has translated into a newfound consistency on the court, where his defensive intensity and scoring efficiency have both taken a noticeable leap forward.
For the Timberwolves, Randle’s transformation couldn’t have come at a better time. The team, already boasting the electric Anthony Edwards, is eyeing a deep playoff run and possibly even a shot at the championship. Randle’s ability to both anchor the paint and stretch defenses with his versatile skill set gives Minnesota a dynamic edge in the fiercely competitive Western Conference. And with his renewed focus, he’s emerging as a leader in the locker room, setting an example for younger teammates and helping to foster a culture of accountability and growth.
“Julius has brought a whole new energy since joining us,” said a Timberwolves team official, who praised Randle’s work ethic and positive influence. “He’s not just about stats—he’s about making the team better, on and off the floor.” That sentiment is echoed by fans and analysts alike, many of whom see Randle’s resurgence as a key factor in the Timberwolves’ rising fortunes.
Of course, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Randle himself admits that breaking old habits and forging new ones wasn’t easy. There were moments of doubt, times when the old ways seemed easier, if only for a moment’s escape. But with therapy and a support system that includes family, teammates, and coaches, he’s managed to stay the course. “You have to want it, really want it,” Randle said. “And you have to be honest with yourself about what’s holding you back.”
His story is resonating across the league, serving as a reminder that success in professional sports is as much about mental strength as it is about physical talent. Randle’s willingness to speak openly about his struggles and his path to self-improvement is helping to destigmatize conversations around mental health in the NBA—a league where the pressure to perform can be relentless.
Looking ahead, Randle is determined to keep building on the foundation he’s laid. He’s not content to rest on last season’s laurels or his recent accolades. “This is just the beginning,” he insisted. With the Timberwolves poised to make noise in the postseason and expectations running high, Randle’s blend of experience, skill, and self-awareness could prove to be the x-factor that pushes Minnesota over the top.
His evolution from a player who once struggled with consistency and off-court distractions to one who thrives under pressure is nothing short of remarkable. It’s a transformation that’s being noticed not just in Minnesota, but throughout the NBA. “He’s showing everyone what’s possible when you put your mind to it—literally,” said one league insider. “It’s inspiring, and it’s changing the way people think about what it means to be a professional athlete.”
For now, Timberwolves fans have plenty to be excited about. With Randle and Edwards leading the charge, the team is shaping up to be a serious contender in the West. The chemistry on the court is palpable, and the sense of purpose in the locker room is stronger than ever. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Randle to see if he can maintain his upward trajectory and help bring a championship to Minnesota—a feat that would cement his legacy as one of the most impactful players of his generation.
As the Timberwolves gear up for another run at postseason glory, Julius Randle’s story stands as a testament to the power of change, resilience, and self-belief. With his mind clear and his game sharper than ever, he’s not just chasing stats—he’s chasing greatness. And if his recent performances are any indication, the best may be yet to come.