Timberwolves Sign 2021 College Player Of The Year

The Minnesota Timberwolves are bringing in some depth in the front court, agreeing to a deal with the 2021 college National Player of the Year, 6'11" center Luke Garza. 

Wolves sign Luke Garza to a training camp deal, per team release.

The 23 year old was the 52nd pick for Detroit in last years draft.

In his rookie year he averaged 5.8 points and 3.1 rebounds on 12.2 minutes per game.

Another great addition to a training camp for Connelly. https://t.co/MI2kHsTwrH

— Pat 🐺 (@Wolves6Pack) August 23, 2022

Garza earned the Naismith POY Award after averaging 24.1 points, 8.7 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.6 blocks and 31.6 minutes per game at Iowa during his senior season. He was also named a two-time unanimous All-America First Team selection (2020-21 and 2019-20) and two-time Big Ten Player of the Year (2020-21 and 2019-20).  

Garza was drafted in the 2nd round (52nd overall) by the Detroit Pistons in the 2021 NBA Draft, but they declined a team option on him after last season. The 23-year-old posted averages of 5.8 points and 3.1 rebounds for the Pistons in only 12 minutes per game. 

For the Pistons' G League affiliate, the Motor City Cruise, Garza dominated as he had in college, averaging 20.6 points and 9.5 rebounds in 16 games. 

The T-Wolves already have 12 players on guaranteed contracts, so Garza will be battling for one of the remaining three spots on the roster in training camp next month.

Photos: Mary Langenfeld-USA TODAY Sports