Expansion Franchises

EXPANSION FRANCHISES often struggle early in their existence. It took nine years for the Minnesota Timberwolves to record the team’s first National Basketball Association playoff victory.

In 1998, Minnesota squeaked into the postseason with a 45–37 record to finish seventh in the Western Conference. With its mediocre record, few considered the club a championship contender. And drawing the No. 2 seed, the Seattle Supersonics, in the first round did little to inspire confidence.

The first contest in Seattle ended how most expected: with Minnesota going down 108–83. The loss dropped the Timberwolves’ postseason record to 0–5, and prospects for a first playoff victory appeared bleak.

Game two, however, saw a different Minnesota team. Taking a 28–20 first-quarter lead, the T-Wolves never allowed Seattle to dominate. With the score tied 86–86, Michael Williams fed Kevin Garnett for a layup. Following a miss by Seattle’s Detlef Schrempf, Stephon Marbury grabbed the loose ball and drove for another layup, giving the Timberwolves a four-point margin with 1:42 remaining.

The Supersonics closed the gap to 92–90 with 15.2 seconds to play, but Minnesota hit four free throws in the closing moments and held on to a 98–93 win.

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POINT The Minnesota Timberwolves overcame a lot of past frustration with that win. After years without a playoff victory, the T-Wolves forgot about their history and strove to make a new, more successful future.

Sometimes in our life, we need to put away the past. The heavenly Father gives us memories for our enjoyment and education, but he doesn’t want us to dwell there. In the Old Testament, the Lord told Isaiah to get ready for a new beginning. He was going to make a pathway for his people to come to him.

GOAL! Do you know Christ as your Savior? If not, admit your sins and put your trust in Christ, who died for you. A simple prayer is all it takes. If you already serve God, do your friends and family members know Jesus? If not, ask God to help them start a new life with him.