“Hometown Hero: Kalscheur’s Journey Back to the Timberwolves”
Gabe Kalscheur is returning to familiar grounds this week, donning a Minnesota Timberwolves jersey and training at Mayo Clinic Square. After playing for DeLaSalle, the Gophers, and Iowa State, Kalscheur spent the last year in the NBA G League with the Capital City Go-Go and later with the Iowa Wolves. He previously worked out with the Timberwolves and is now getting another shot with his hometown team.
“It’s great to be back; this organization has always treated me well,” Kalscheur remarked. “I just keep working hard, knowing it will pay off.”
In his G League stint, he played seven games with the Capital City Go-Go and 14 with the Iowa Wolves, averaging 4.4 points per game. His takeaway from the G League? Always be prepared for your chance.
“Excel in your role and seize your opportunity when it comes,” Kalscheur advised. “You never know when it will come, but you have to be ready.”
An All-Big 12 selection in his senior year at Iowa State, Kalscheur led the Cyclones to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances. He transferred to Iowa State after spending three years at Minnesota post Richard Pitino’s departure.
Kalscheur feels he has a lot to prove with the Timberwolves in Las Vegas. “Everyone has something to prove, including me,” he said. “I know I can shoot and defend at a high level, and I aim to demonstrate that to the team.”
The Timberwolves start their Summer League games on Friday against the New Orleans Pelicans in Las Vegas. First-round pick Terrence Shannon Jr. expressed his clear ambition on Tuesday: “I want to win the whole league. I always aim to compete and win,” Shannon said. “I expect us to play hard and secure a victory.”
Shannon and fellow first-round pick Rob Dillingham will debut as Timberwolves on Friday. Assistant coach Max Lefevre warned them about the intense competition.
“It’s going to be very physical and challenging,” Lefevre noted. “Some rookies have secured jobs, but many players in the Summer League are fighting for their careers. Be ready for that level of competition.”