Gobert Deal Now Seen as Win; Abdelfattah Named Iowa Coach; Udoka Talks Şengün’s EuroBasket Form, Durant’s Team-First Approach
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MINNEAPOLIS — Two years after surrendering five players and a cache of first-round picks to obtain Rudy Gobert, the Timberwolves are reaping the rewards. Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic reports that Gobert’s defensive presence and the club’s on-court success have altered the franchise’s culture, turning Minnesota into a destination with elevated expectations.
Coaching update
The Timberwolves have formally appointed Mahmoud Abdelfattah as head coach of the Iowa Wolves, the organization’s NBA G League affiliate. The move, first reported in August, was confirmed in a team statement. Abdelfattah guided the Sydney Kings during the 2023-24 Australian NBL season and previously spent four seasons (2019-23) with the Rockets’ developmental system.
EuroBasket spotlight
Rockets center Alperen Şengün has emerged as one of EuroBasket’s standout performers, a development head coach Ime Udoka expected after visiting the big man in Turkey this summer. “Be aggressive and get back to dominating as you have throughout your career,” Udoka said of his advice. The coach added that Şengün is piling up assists, shooting efficiently and expanding his all-around game, not merely focusing on scoring.
Durant’s message
Udoka also shared that Kevin Durant told him to “use me in any way necessary,” stressing he does not want Houston’s young core to defer to him. According to Udoka, the veteran forward has encouraged teammates to remain assertive while he integrates “where we see necessary.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
