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USA Today via Reuters

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USA Today via Reuters

When Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore finally took over the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx after a long, drawn-out battle, rumors quickly surfaced. The most prominent one was talk of a move to Seattle. They shut that down immediately, emphasizing Minnesota’s strong sports culture and their commitment to the local community. Now, after serving the fans once, they have taken another step in that direction.

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The Minnesota Timberwolves announced a partnership with Gray Media to widen their free, over-the-air broadcast of basketball games across the city. “As we build on our successful over-the-air partnership with KARE 11, this new collaboration with Gray Media further strengthens our commitment to expanding access and deepening fan engagement across Timberwolves Country,” said Patrick Rees, the Timberwolves and Lynx Chief Communications Officer, in the team’s announcement.

“We’re proud to continue providing free, over-the-air access to Timberwolves basketball through our partnership with FanDuel Sports Network, allowing even more fans across our viewing area to connect with their favorite team,” the release further read. Through this partnership, Gray Media (the $497 million company) will air three games, including tonight’s game against the Sacramento Kings, on its regional network. That includes Duluth, Mankato, and Rochester, Minnesota.

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Rodriguez and Lore have made it a priority to expand the Timberwolves’ reach. Their renewed partnership with KARE 11 reinforces that push, with the station set to air four free games for the second straight season. Through Gray Media, the remaining three broadcasts will simulcast across a wider region, giving even more fans access to free Timberwolves basketball.

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It serves as another initiative from Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore to deepen their connection with the Minnesota community. They have already focused on the fan experience within the arena. They launched Jump, a ticketing platform that allows fans to bid for better seats if they get vacated early during games. Furthermore, there’s another big project that the owners have set their eyes on.

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Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore dream of a new arena for the Minnesota Timberwolves

From the very beginning, serving the Minnesota community and manifesting their passion has been a goal for A-Rod and Lore. Likewise, they have already done a lot to build a stronger connection. But at its peak, they want to prioritize fan experience. For that, they have had one target circled on their agenda list since day one.

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The owners envision a new arena that brings excitement and modern facilities for the Timberwolves and the Lynx.

The Target Center has been a long-time home for the franchise. It’s the second-oldest arena in the NBA, only behind Madison Square Garden. However, the arena doesn’t have limitless access to upgrades, like the MSG in recent years. The Target Center has one of the lowest available premium seats and is also one of the smallest, according to the Star Tribune.

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So Alex Rodriguez, taking inspiration from the New England Patriots’ Patriot Palace, wants to create a state-of-the-art arena. He wants it to anchor an entertainment district, hoping to generate additional revenue outside of ticket sales to funnel it back into team operations. The approach aligns with making both teams one of the most respected sports franchises across the world.

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Financing the project is complicated, but Lore and Rodriguez have signaled they’re ready to privately fund a new arena if needed. They’re still searching for the ideal site, yet they’ve repeatedly stressed that Minnesota will remain home. Their approach reflects a broader push to modernize both teams, bringing forward-looking ideas that match their long-term vision for the franchise.

A new, private arena could be a major boost for the Lynx and the Timberwolves. And while it could take a few years, Alex Rodriguez and Lore have it as their topmost priority.

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