In a thrilling Game 5 that saw the Minnesota Timberwolves eliminate the Golden State Warriors, Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert reflected on their journey and the significance of their victory during a postgame interview. The Timberwolves, having faced numerous challenges throughout the season, demonstrated resilience and teamwork, ultimately showcasing their growth as a squad that is now poised for the Western Conference Finals.
Edwards, who has been a standout performer, emphasized the importance of teammate Julius Randle’s contributions throughout the series. “His ability to create for others and control the tempo of the game has been incredible,” Edwards stated, acknowledging Randle’s defensive prowess and leadership on the court. The young star also shared his determination following last year’s Western Conference Finals loss, indicating that the sting of defeat motivated him throughout the season. “We just had to stay with it—taking the lessons from last year into this summer,” he said.
Gobert, too, was instrumental in the Timberwolves’ success, particularly in clutch moments of the playoffs. Reflecting on his mindset during closeout games, he remarked, “It was about being present and enjoying the moment.” He highlighted the importance of setting the tone for the team with his energy and preparation, indicating that the focus was on collective success rather than individual accolades.
Despite their triumph over the Warriors, Gobert was quick to emphasize that satisfaction is not yet in their grasp. “We just got here; we haven’t done anything yet,” he asserted, underscoring the team’s mentality as they navigate the playoffs. Both players expressed that the journey has been different from last year, with a renewed focus on maturity and teamwork. “The most together team wins at this time of year,” Gobert noted, emphasizing the importance of unity over individual performances.
The Timberwolves faced the Warriors, a team known for their championship pedigree, and managed to bounce back impressively after a shaky start to the series. Gobert remarked on the significance of their ability to overcome adversity, stating, “It’s about our mindset and our approach.” Both he and Edwards acknowledged the lessons learned from previous playoff experiences, particularly the need for a levelheaded approach to maintain focus under pressure.
When asked about the personal nature of their matchup, particularly with former teammate Jimmy Butler and Warriors’ Draymond Green, Edwards dismissed the notion of personal rivalries, stating, “It wasn’t personal; it was about trying to get a win.” Gobert shared similar sentiments, focusing on the respect he holds for competitive players like Green and Butler while emphasizing his commitment to the team’s goals.
Looking ahead to the Western Conference Finals, both players expressed optimism but refrained from getting ahead of themselves. Edwards noted a sense of increased comfort in his game, alluding to his development in playmaking, while Gobert acknowledged the importance of preparation and maintaining a steady mindset. “Our goal is the same; we want to win a championship,” he said, highlighting the team’s shared aspirations.
The postgame discussion also touched on the emotional moments of the night, particularly for veteran player Mike Conley, who has faced his share of playoff disappointments. Gobert expressed a deep respect for Conley, recognizing the veteran’s contributions and the desire to win for him. The camaraderie within the team was palpable, as both Edwards and Gobert conveyed their commitment to supporting each other as they continue their playoff journey.
As the Timberwolves gear up for the next round, their performance against the Warriors has set a promising tone for the remainder of the playoffs. With a blend of youthful energy and seasoned leadership, Minnesota appears ready to tackle the challenges ahead, fueled by the lessons of past experiences and a collective drive for success.