The Minnesota Timberwolves are making headlines for more than just their playoff performance as they find themselves embroiled in controversy following an incident involving Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green. During Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinals on May 8, 2025, a fan was ejected from Target Center after engaging in a heated exchange with Green while he was on a stationary bike in the tunnel near the Warriors' bench.
The Timberwolves, who defeated the Warriors 117-93 to tie the series at 1-1, took swift action against the fan, issuing a statement confirming the ejection and the ongoing investigation into the incident. "During the fourth quarter of last night's game against the Warriors, a fan was ejected by Target Center security for violating the NBA Fan Code of Conduct in an incident involving Draymond Green," the statement read. "A second individual, who was identified by surrounding patrons as making racially charged comments towards Green, left on his own before arena security could confirm his identity. The team is continuing to investigate, and additional action may be taken. The Timberwolves and Target Center are firmly committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and safe environment for all. Racist, hateful, or threatening behavior has no place at our games or in our community and will not be tolerated under any circumstances."
Green himself has been vocal about the perception surrounding him, particularly in light of this incident. After the game, he expressed frustration over being portrayed as an "angry Black man" in the media and by referees. "Looked like the angry Black man," Green told reporters. "I'm not an angry Black man. I am a very successful, educated Black man with a great family, and I am great at basketball. The agenda to try to keep making me look like an angry Black man is crazy. I'm sick of it. It's ridiculous." His comments sparked a debate about race and perception in sports, especially regarding athletes of color.
The incident unfolded in a game that was critical for both teams, especially with Golden State missing their star player, Stephen Curry, due to a hamstring injury. The Timberwolves capitalized on Curry's absence, bouncing back from a Game 1 loss to level the series. Julius Randle led the Timberwolves with a game-high 24 points, while All-Star guard Anthony Edwards contributed 20 points, nine rebounds, and five assists.
Green, who finished the game with nine points, five assists, and four rebounds, received his fifth technical foul of the playoffs during this matchup. The foul was the result of an altercation with Timberwolves center Naz Reid, where Green flailed his arms and inadvertently hit Reid in the face. This technical foul puts Green just two away from a suspension, raising the stakes for the Warriors as they prepare for Game 3.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr acknowledged the need for Green to maintain composure, especially given the high stakes of the playoffs. "I could see he had gotten pretty upset and I just didn't want him to get another technical, so I took him out at that point," Kerr explained. "I know he is going to have to be careful now. He is going to have to stay composed. Obviously, we need him. I'm confident that he will because he knows the circumstances." Kerr's comments highlight the ongoing challenge Green faces in balancing his competitive nature with the need to avoid penalties that could jeopardize his team's playoff run.
As the Warriors and Timberwolves gear up for Game 3, scheduled for Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 8:30 p.m. ET at Chase Center, both teams are feeling the pressure. The Timberwolves are eager to capitalize on their momentum from Game 2, while the Warriors are looking to regain control of the series. With the stakes higher than ever, the atmosphere is sure to be electric.
In the wake of the incident, the Timberwolves organization has reaffirmed its commitment to creating a safe and respectful environment for all fans. The ongoing investigation into the fan's comments underscores the league's stance against racism and discriminatory behavior, emphasizing that such actions will not be tolerated.
The Warriors, who are known for their resilience, will have to rally without Curry, as they attempt to reclaim their footing in the series. Green's performance will be crucial, and with the added scrutiny surrounding his behavior, he will need to channel his energy productively to help his team succeed.
As the series progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how both teams adapt to the challenges presented by the playoffs, the controversies off the court, and the intense rivalry that has developed between the Timberwolves and Warriors. The narrative surrounding Green, his interactions with fans, and the broader implications of race in sports will continue to unfold as the playoffs advance.
With Game 3 on the horizon, both teams are poised for a fierce battle, and the outcome remains uncertain. Will the Timberwolves continue their winning streak, or can the Warriors bounce back and take the lead? The excitement is palpable as the series continues to develop.
