Jonathan Kuminga, the newest Minnesota Timberwolves starter, just threw a verbal jab heard ’round the league, flat out stating he’s “never played with someone that can pass as good as LaMelo” Ball. This was not some off-the-cuff remark to a buddy; this was at his official introductory press conference with his new squad, and it has everyone talking.
The Shocking Statement From The New T-Wolves Starter
Kuminga just inked a two-year, $13 million deal with a player option to join the T-Wolves, making him a critical piece for a team ESPN’s Shams Charania says is a “West contender.” He’s set to start alongside Anthony Edwards, LaMelo Ball, Jaden McDaniels, and Rudy Gobert. The Timberwolves are looking like legitimate contenders for the NBA Finals, and landing a 23-year-old NBA champion like Kuminga, who brings that kind of experience, is a huge move for them. His agent, Aaron Turner, even said Kuminga chose Minnesota over the presumed favorite, the Los Angeles Lakers, because it was the “best basketball situation.” So Kuminga is clearly hyped for his new home. But at his introductory press conference, when asked questions from reporters, he dropped a bomb. His comment about LaMelo’s passing ability wasn’t just praise for a new teammate; it was a direct, subtle shot at Golden State Warriors superstar Steph Curry, his former teammate for five whole seasons.
The History That Makes This A Straight-Up Betrayal
Think about that for a second. Kuminga played with Steph Curry for five years. FIVE. How do you “forget” about one of the greatest point guards and playmakers to ever touch a basketball? While Curry is known for his shooting, saying he’s not the best passer Kuminga’s played with? That’s just wild. Curry is a four-time NBA champion, and honestly, he was a huge reason Kuminga got as many good looks as he did while they were teammates. This isn’t the first time Kuminga and his agent have made some “interesting takes” and “comments” since he left the Warriors. There’s been a vibe of resentment toward the Warriors organization brewing, and this latest statement just pours gasoline on that fire. It’s tough to hear a player openly diminish the contributions of a future Hall of Famer who helped him win a ring. The NBA is a soap opera sometimes, and Kuminga just gave us another episode.
Kuminga’s comments mean the next time the Timberwolves and Warriors meet, you know everyone will be watching. How will Steph respond on the court? How will Kuminga back up his words? This isn’t just a player changing teams; this is a player changing narratives, and it sets up some serious drama for the upcoming season. You just know Golden State won’t forget this.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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