Timberwolves coach Chris Finch suffers torn patellar tendon in knee after player collision
Minnesota
Timberwolves Coach Chris Finch Suffers Knee Injury in Playoff Collision
Phoenix, Arizona —
Minnesota Timberwolves coach Chris Finch endured a harrowing moment during the
team's playoff victory over the Phoenix Suns on Sunday night, as he sustained a
ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee following a collision with
Timberwolves guard Mike Conley in the fourth quarter.
The incident
occurred as Conley attempted to dribble down the sideline and collided with
Suns star Devin Booker, inadvertently running into Finch in the process.
Despite Conley's efforts to cushion the fall, Finch immediately grasped his
right knee in pain, signaling the severity of the injury.
Assisted by
Minnesota players, coaches, and staff, Finch was helped off the court and later
transported from the arena on a cart. The Timberwolves subsequently confirmed
the nature of Finch's injury, revealing the extent of the damage.
Amidst the chaos
of the collision, the Timberwolves managed to secure a hard-fought victory over
the Suns, triumphing 122-116 and sweeping the first-round series to advance to
the second round for the first time since 2004.
Assistant coach
Micah Nori assumed coaching duties for the final minutes of the game, providing
leadership in Finch's absence. Nori later provided updates on Finch's
condition, noting that the coach was undergoing medical evaluation and
expressing optimism about his spirits.
In a lighthearted
moment following the game, Conley, who was involved in the collision, shared a
humorous exchange with Finch, jokingly urging him to remain seated during
late-game situations to avoid further mishaps. Despite the jest, Conley offered
well wishes for Finch's recovery, acknowledging the coach's resilience and
dedication to the team.
As the
Timberwolves navigate their postseason journey, they do so with the resilience
and determination exemplified by Finch and his unwavering commitment to the
team's success. With Finch's injury serving as a rallying point for the squad,
the Timberwolves remain focused on their quest for championship glory, fueled
by the camaraderie and resilience that define their playoff campaign.
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