Rudy Gobert announces "win-win" contract extension with the Timberwolves

Center Rudy Gobert confirmed on Tuesday evening that he has finalized a contract extension with the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Earlier reports from ESPN and other sources indicated that Gobert's extension is a three-year deal worth $110 million, following his acquisition by Minnesota in a trade with Utah in 2022.

Although Gobert did not disclose the details of the agreement after the Timberwolves' 110-103 defeat to the Los Angeles Lakers in their season opener, he expressed his satisfaction with remaining in Minnesota. He emphasized that the structure of his new contract was designed to enhance the team's competitiveness.

“It was important to find a mutually beneficial arrangement,” he stated. “I am content here, and my family feels the same. My aspiration is to secure a championship in this city. Additionally, my previous contract was quite substantial, so it was essential to enable the team to retain its key players. This arrangement benefits both the Timberwolves and myself, providing me with greater long-term stability, which was our mutual objective.

“I am truly thankful and pleased, and our aim remains unchanged. Whether or not a deal was reached, our focus is on winning a championship.”

The 32-year-old Gobert previously held a player option worth $46.6 million for the 2025-26 season in his former contract. His new agreement supersedes that option and extends his commitment to the Timberwolves, who advanced to the Western Conference finals last season for the first time in twenty years.

“I believe it is essential to find a balance,” Gobert stated. “With each contract I sign, I strive to leave some room for the team, recognizing my gratitude for the earnings I receive. Coming from my background, it is a remarkable blessing, and I also aim to avoid excessive greed, ensuring that I contribute to our competitiveness as a team. This is crucial, and I am thankful for the wonderful people surrounding me.”

Gobert dedicated the first nine seasons of his NBA career to the Jazz before being traded to the Timberwolves, a move that involved several players, including current Lakers swingman Jarred Vanderbilt, as well as four first-round draft picks.

The three-time All-Star has proven to be precisely what Minnesota sought in the trade. Last season, he recorded averages of 14.0 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks, earning his fourth Defensive Player of the Year award.

Recently, Minnesota traded fellow big man Karl-Anthony Towns to New York in exchange for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo, thereby enhancing Gobert’s significance in the paint for the Timberwolves.

“It has never been solely about financial gain; at this stage of my career, it is more about being in a place where I feel at home and where I can pursue a championship,” Gobert remarked. “The players, coaches, and the organization have welcomed me, believed in me, and provided me with the opportunity to become the best version of myself.”

According to ESPN, his new contract includes a player option for the 2027-28 season and a trade kicker.