Forever a Minnesotan.
Timberwolves Send Emotional Parting Message to Nickeil-Alexander Walker After Hawks Trade originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Minnesota Timberwolves had to make some tough decisions approaching NBA free agency -- but none hit quite as hard as letting Nickeil Alexander-Walker go.
In a sign-and-trade with the Atlanta Hawks, the Wolves dealt Alexander-Walker to Atlanta in exchange for a future second-round pick and cash considerations.
Meanwhile, Alexander-Walker's new team landed him to the tune of a four-year, $62 million contract -- more than the Timberwolves could afford to pay him with the NBA's new cap rules.
The deal was officially finalized on July 6, leading to several goodbye posts from the Wolves' social media team that elicited an emotional response from the fan base.
"the drip, the spark, the consistency," the Wolves wrote of Alexander-Walker, who played in 223 of 224 possible games for Minnesota in two-and-a-half seasons with the team.
"forever our iron man," the Timberwolves added with a video highlighting Alexander-Walker.
the drip, the spark, the consistency.
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) July 6, 2025
forever our iron man. pic.twitter.com/xRTtL6UBUj
Alexander-Walker was admired for his thoughtful responses in interviews and his willingness to play whatever role the Timberwolves needed. That selflessness translated onto the court and gained respect from his teammates.
Minnesota will miss you, NAW. 💙 pic.twitter.com/N0KcK9yyY1
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) July 6, 2025
In the comments, many fans reveled in the goodbye and had fun with Alexander-Walker's initials, "NAW," one last time while venting their feelings about his departure.
"THOUGHT I WAS OVER IT, BUT IM NAWT," one Wolves account replied.
"didn’t think i was gonna cry today but here we are," a fan wrote.
"I wasn’t going to drink today…. But NAW I have to," a second fan quipped.
"A Minnesota legend forever🫡," a third fan said.
"Thank you, NAW! You will be missed," another fan wrote. "You’ll ALWAYS be respected and loved here!"
Related: Gilbert Arenas Gets Honest About The Timberwolves' Flexibility With The Roster
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 6, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: Basketball
