Timberwolves introduce new part-owners, plan to keep team in Minnesota

The Minnesota Timberwolves are hoping to start a new chapter.

The team introduced its newest part-owners during a news conference Monday morning.

They are former baseball player Alex Rodriguez and former Wal-Mart CEO Marc Lore.

It was the first time Lore and Rodriguez spoke to local media members since the announcement was made back in July that they were buying into the team.

Rodriguez and Lore addressed both reporters and players Monday and talked about their future plans for the team.

***Click the video box above to hear from Taylor, Lore, and Rodriguez***

The two will eventually have control starting in 2023.

They answered some of the questions fans have been wanting to know, including one of the most pressing: Do they have any plans to move the team from Minnesota?

Rodriguez said no, they plan to stay in the Twin Cities.

Both said they’re excited to learn from Glen Taylor and bring a diverse set of skills to management.

"Alex and I feel so fortunate to have met Glen and Becky and to have this opportunity," Lore said. "This is a dream of both of ours and we feel so fortunate to be here in Minnesota. I know how difficult and hard it is, the road to the championship. It took me 15 years but I am really excited to bring my experience both in business and in sports and in the locker room to Minnesota."

The team also said all players are expected to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by the time the season starts.

Starting Monday, single-game tickets officially went on sale. Those who buy tickets to any home game will automatically get two free tickets to the season opener, which is on Oct. 20.