7 reasons why the Minnesota Timberwolves had to re-sign Naz Reid
By Bret Stuter
VI: Naz Reid is incredibly popular with Timberwolves fans
One of the earmarks of NBA success is ticket sales, and Naz Reid helps to fill the seats. In fact, he is one of the most popular players on the roster, which shows how he has worked so hard to rise from an undrafted player to the spot he is now.
You see, the thing about being the hardest-working player on the basketball court is, the Timberwolves fans noticed. Not just noticed, but shared a little extra love as a result. And it’s becoming mutual.
Even the kids love him
While it is not always wise or fair, it’s awesome to have a player on the Minnesota Timberwolves roster who is truly worth children looking up to. It’s a throwback to the glory days of the NBA to have a player who embodies the qualities that will aid young people throughout their lives.
Children draped in shirts that said “Naz Reid.”
— Jon Krawczynski (@JonKrawczynski) July 6, 2023
A contract that says the Timberwolves couldn’t let him get away.
A team that lost some of its swagger when he went down.
Wednesday was a moment to marvel at what Naz Reid has built. https://t.co/5kT3fP3jmd
The biggest difference between small market teams and large market teams is that in large markets, everybody gets national press coverage, but only the best players are recognized as celebrity status in the city. In small market teams, only the best players get national press, but every player gets the benefit of celebrity status in their home city. And that small difference can be a huge reason for players to stay where they are:
"It only made sense. I didn't want to go anywhere else."
— Bally Sports North (@BallySportsNOR) July 5, 2023
Naz Reid on why he was determined to stay with the #Wolves. pic.twitter.com/RFeIFW5OH6
A loyal player is not exactly easy to find in the modern NBA. And a home-grown NBA talent is even more rare. But Naz Reid is a bit of a unicorn of sorts. And Timberwolves fans love him all the more for it.