Karl-Anthony Towns received word that he tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday, just before the Minnesota Timberwolves were slated to take on the Memphis Grizzlies. That game has now been postponed.
The two-time All-Star has dealt with a lot of adversity throughout the pandemic, and urged others to continue adhering to all protocols and health and safety guidelines.
Karl-Anthony Towns announces positive COVID-19 test
In a post on his Twitter feed, Towns confirmed his positive test and discussed his personal experience with the coronavirus:
Towns has seen the pandemic hit very close to home too many times already. He’s said that seven of his family members, including his mother, have died from COVID-19.
Due to a dislocated wrist, Towns has only appeared in four of the Timberwolves’ 11 games this season, but he did return to the lineup this past Saturday.
Karl-Anthony Towns stats, Timberwolves 2020-21 outlook
The 25-year-old has been excellent when in action this season, averaging 22 points, 12.5 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 2.8 blocks per contest. It’s even more extraordinary that Towns is playing at such a high level with all the heartbreak he’s endured throughout 2020.
Towns was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, and the hope is he can return soon enough to help the Timberwolves turn things around amid a slow start.
Obviously, what’s happening with Towns right now is much bigger than basketball. Minnesota is in the midst of a 3-8 season, but the most important thing is for Towns to make a full recovery.
It also remains to be seen whether this positive test from Towns means other Timberwolves players will be out due to NBA protocols. Close contact tracing or additional tests may reveal either at-risk players or additional COVID-19 positive members of the roster.
Until that’s all sorted out, it’s unclear when Minnesota will be able to resume its schedule. The Wolves are next slated to take on the Atlanta Hawks on Monday afternoon.