The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 143-101 in Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals.
This was a much needed victory as the Timberwolves lost both games in Oklahoma City and began the series.
Top scorers Anthony Edwards (30 points) and Julius Randle (24) stepped up, but unlikely players made a big contribution.
Certainly, one Minnesota bench player has scored more points than most valuable player recently, Shay Gilgauss Alexander.
Terrence Shannon Jr. scored 15 points in Game 3 in just 13 minutes from the Timberwolves’ bench.
He played just two minutes in Game 1, but he played nothing in Game 2, so it was amazing to see head coach Chris Finch heading towards him.
Shannon Jr. clearly exceeded expectations at the Target Center, but he said he felt “normal” because of the efforts he made.
“I’m always at work, I’m always ready and trying to be my best teammate in the meantime, so that was just normal,” Shannon Jr. said at a postgame press conference.
“When my name is called, I do what I do. Yeah, I become myself. That’s my game. I attack the downhill, I go into paint and make open shots.”
Chemistry is almost as important as ability, especially for role players. They need to fit the locker room and spinning seamlessly.
Shannon Jr. commented on his excellent relationship with Ant-Man following his 15-point Game 3 performance.
“That’s my daug, we talk all the time,” he added. “We give each other feedback. Like you said, we both work hard and love the game.
The pair will play more time together in Game 4 and beyond after proven that Shannon Jr. has what they need to contribute to the playoffs.
