In a league where lottery picks often dominate headlines, Naz Reid’s story is a powerful reminder that greatness can come from anywhere. Once an undrafted free agent fighting for a roster spot, Reid has now signed a massive five-year, $125 million contract extension with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Reid’s journey began in 2019, when he went undrafted out of LSU despite a strong freshman season. Rather than give up, he signed a two-way contract with the Timberwolves on July 5, 2019. Just 13 days later, Minnesota converted it into a standard NBA deal.
Over the next few seasons, Reid quietly carved out a role as a reliable big man off the bench. His blend of size, shooting touch, and hustle made him a fan favorite and a key piece of the Timberwolves’ rotation.
Reid’s breakout came during the 2023–24 season, when he averaged 13.5 points and shot over 41% from three-point range, earning him the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award. He followed that up with a career-best 14.2 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game in 2024–25, proving he was more than just a spark plug, but a cornerstone.
Despite having a $15 million player option for the 2025–26 season, Reid declined it and instead secured a long-term deal that will pay him $25 million annually. The contract includes a player option and aligns his future with Minnesota’s rising core of Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels.
Just in: Minnesota Timberwolves’ Naz Reid intends to sign a new five-year, $125 million contract to stay with the franchise, including a player option, sources tell ESPN. Critical agreement between the Wolves and Reid’s agents, Sean Kennedy and Jeff Schwartz of Excel Sports. pic.twitter.com/FF9MjGvwb9
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 28, 2025
What makes Reid’s story so compelling isn’t just the stats, it’s the resilience. From being overlooked on draft night to becoming the longest-tenured player on the Timberwolves, Reid has earned every minute, every dollar, and every cheer.
He’s also become a symbol of development and loyalty in an era of constant roster churn. While other teams reportedly offered similar money and starting roles, Reid chose to stay in Minnesota, a city and franchise that believed in him from the start.
