When the Timberwolves take the floor for the Western Conference Finals, they'll do so while paying homage to the franchise's inaugural team.
As it has done often throughout the 2024 NBA Playoffs, Minnesota will wear its throwback jerseys for Games 1 and 2 of the Western Conference Finals against Dallas. The classic, clean look will be accompanied by a matching throwback court complete with the team's retro colors and logo.
The Wolves' decision to go retro to start the series should not be taken lightly. In addition to this being just the second conference finals appearance in franchise history, Minnesota has received special permission to stick with the classic threads, according to The Athletic's Jon Krawczynski.
What is the story behind the Timberwolves' throwbacks? Here is what you need to know about Minnesota's retro uniforms.
MORE: Do Timberwolves have an answer for Luka Doncic in the Western Conference Finals?
Timberwolves throwback jerseys, explained
To celebrate the franchise's 35th season, the Timberwolves unveiled throwback jerseys for the 2023-24 campaign.
Minnesota's classic uniforms were the team's home jerseys from its inaugural season in 1989-90 through the 1995-96 season. The white uniforms feature blue and green accents, "Wolves" script across the chest, and the original wolf logo on the shorts.
Among notable players to wear the original Wolves uniforms are J.R. Rider, Tom Gugliotta, and a teenaged Kevin Garnett.
A modernized classic, this year's version features smaller numbers, a slightly different shade of green, Nike's "Futura" swoosh, and the Timberwolves' Aura ad patch.
Aside from a few other subtle differences, the jerseys are nearly a carbon copy of the uniforms worn during the franchise's inception.
MORE: NBA fans worried Timberwolves are cursed after postgame workout photos
Timberwolves record in throwback jerseys
The Timberwolves are 4-0 in their throwback jerseys during the postseason.
Minnesota wore its Classic Edition uniforms for Games 1 and 2 of its opening round sweep in the 2024 NBA Playoffs. It shelved the jerseys for the next seven games.
The Wolves brought the jerseys back when facing elimination in Game 6 of the Western Conference Semifinals. Minnesota made history in its throwback threads, extending the series with a 45-point blowout win in Game 6 before mounting a historic comeback from down 20 points in Game 7.
MORE: Anthony Edwards taunts Jamal Murray, calls out Charles Barkley after Game 7
Who is Old Shep?
Old Shep is the nickname given to the wolf in the Timberwolves' original logo.
When Minnesota wears its throwback jerseys at home, it plays on a matching court that features a matching royal blue and Old Shep at midcourt. In 2017, the Wolves introduced the modernized Shep logo that is still in use on their standard floor.
