Tensions Run High as Donte DiVincenzo Returns to Madison Square Garden
A heated exchange between Minnesota Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo and New York Knicks assistant coach Rick Brunson stole the spotlight after Sunday’s preseason game. The confrontation occurred on the court, with players and coaches from both teams looking on.
A Familiar Foe
DiVincenzo, who was traded from the Knicks two weeks prior, had a strong showing in his return to Madison Square Garden, scoring 15 points and dishing out seven assists. However, it was his interactions with the Knicks’ bench that garnered the most attention.
During the game, DiVincenzo was seen shouting towards the Knicks’ bench, and at one point, he was heard saying, “That’s what happens when they let you run the show.” He declined to comment on who he was directing his comments towards, suggesting it was an inside joke with Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau.
A Postgame Confrontation
The tension continued after the game, as DiVincenzo and Brunson, the father of Knicks star Jalen Brunson, engaged in a verbal exchange. DiVincenzo declined to comment on the incident, saying he would prefer to discuss it privately with Brunson.
Jalen Brunson, who was present during the confrontation, downplayed the incident, saying it was “words of affirmation.” DiVincenzo and Brunson have a close relationship, with DiVincenzo serving as a groomsman in Brunson’s wedding.
A Night of Emotions
The game was also notable for being Karl-Anthony Towns’ first game against his former team of nine seasons. Towns had a strong showing, scoring 16 points and grabbing 16 rebounds. Julius Randle, who is still rehabbing from right shoulder surgery, did not play.
The Knicks honored Randle and DiVincenzo with a video tribute during the game, highlighting their contributions to the team. Despite the tension, the night was a celebration of the players’ time with the Knicks.
A New Chapter
As the season begins, the Timberwolves are looking to move forward with their new roster. Coach Chris Finch acknowledged that it will take time to adjust to seeing Towns in a different uniform, saying it’s “like a death in the family in some ways.”
Anthony Edwards, a star player for the Timberwolves, praised DiVincenzo’s competitive fire and aggression, saying, “You can’t be mad at him, man. He makes all the right plays and shoots the cover off the ball. New York is definitely going to miss him.”
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