Intern reporter Chen Yu-tang / Combined Report

　　In their preseason opener on October 6 (local time), the Minnesota Timberwolves visited the Milwaukee Bucks. LaMelo Ball made his debut in a Timberwolves uniform, joining Anthony Edwards for the first time as the team’s new dynamic duo. Ball wasted no time showcasing his signature long-range shooting, pulling up from well beyond the arc on his very first attempt. The two stars played only about 17 minutes before calling it a night, as the Timberwolves cruised to a 116–97 victory, winning by 19 points to claim their first preseason win.

　　Ball arrived in Minnesota via a trade during the offseason, forming a highly anticipated partnership with Edwards. The Timberwolves valued Ball’s elite passing and playmaking, hoping he could relieve Edwards of some ball-handling duties and unlock his driving ability and scoring potential. This game marked the first time the two shared the floor in a competitive setting.

　　Ball wasted no time showing his trademark style. On his first shot as a Timberwolf, he calmly stepped back from deep behind the three-point line and drained it — a signature deep bomb. Though it was just the preseason opener, he quickly found his rhythm, finishing with 11 points and 3 assists.

　　Edwards led all scorers with 14 points, though he shot just 4-of-13 from the field as he continues to find his touch. Still, the Timberwolves’ two cornerstones quickly established control. Minnesota jumped out to a 31–20 lead after the first quarter and carried a 60–48 advantage into halftime.

　　Given it was only a preseason game, the Timberwolves kept the starters’ minutes light. Ball, Edwards, and the rest of the starting unit logged roughly 17 minutes, handling the bulk of the work in the first half before giving way to the reserves in the second half.

　　Beyond the new duo, Ball’s chemistry with Rudy Gobert also drew attention. Ball’s scoring threat, combined with Gobert’s elite pick-and-roll finishing, could open up more space in the Timberwolves’ offense. For Gobert, who is not known for creating his own shot, having a precise passer like Ball could make his life easier on offense.

　　Minnesota rotated heavily in the second half, giving each of the 20 activated players at least six minutes of playing time. The reserves held the lead comfortably, sealing the 116–97 victory.