The Minnesota Timberwolves became the second team to unveil Hardwood Classic uniforms on Wednesday morning – joining the Philadelphia 76ers – when they revealed their “Black Trees” design that celebrates the most successful era in franchise history.
The black uniforms, which were originally worn as an alternate from 1997-2008, feature a custom “Timberwolves” wordmark above a matching number font, as well as a repeating tree pattern in trim on the collar, arm holes, waistband and left leg of the asymmetrical shorts.
The look is complete with their wolf head secondary logo on the right side of shorts and an interlocking “MT” logo, which was also stylized to look like a wolf, on the left. There’s also a Sezzle advertisement on the left shoulder and a retro Nike swoosh on the right.
The Timberwolves won 50 or more games four times between 1999-2004, including a franchise-best 58 victories in 2003-04, when they captured their first and only division title. Forward Kevin Garnett also won the NBA MVP that season, though they fell to the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Finals.
“Our ‘Black Trees’ uniforms pay tribute to one of the most defining eras in team and league history, while introducing a new generation of fans to the Timberwolves’ legacy,” CEO Matt Caldwell said. “These iconic uniforms hold a special place in our community and bringing them back reflects our commitment to listening to fans and celebrating the moments they value most.”
In addition to the uniforms, Minnesota also revealed its Classic Edition court, which is almost an exact replica of the parquet hardwood floor the franchise played on during this era with their primary logo at midcourt, multi-color lanes and the tree pattern in the black out-of bounds area.
The only difference between the original and this year’s design is the “Timberwolves” wordmark on the baselines, which has been reduced in size to account for advertisements, as well as the promotion of the team website along the top sideline.
The Timberwolves will wear the uniforms 28 times this season, including 21 games at Target Center, starting with their three-game opening homestand against the Indiana Pacers, Denver Nuggets and Lakers on Oct. 26-29.
Other teams set to wear Hardwood Classic uniforms this season include the Cleveland Cavaliers (2005-10 alternate), Dallas Mavericks (1981-91 road) and Memphis Grizzlies (2000-02 road).
Photos courtesy of @Timberwolves on X/Twitter.
