Minnesota Timberwolves superstar big man Karl-Anthony Towns had an emotional night on Monday as his father attended his first game since the death of Towns’ mother, Jackie Cruz-Towns, due to COVID-19 last year.
While the Wolves lost to the Brooklyn Nets 112-107, it was a victory of sorts for Towns, who got to play live in front of his father Karl Towns Sr. since his wife died from complications of COVID-19 on April 13th, 2020. Towns finished with 31 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists in the losing effort.
“He understood how upset I was after the loss,” Towns said, according to ESPN’s Malika Andrews. “But he came to me, and he told me something I don’t know if he should’ve told me. It got me a little emotional. He told me my mom would’ve been proud with how I played tonight.”
“Me and my dad got emotional before the game,” Towns said. “Because he made his presence known. It affected me because my mom always did that.”
Cruz-Towns was a constant at Wolves games, often sitting close to the court and even visit with opposing players. Cruz-Towns was known for her loud support and excitement for her son’s play.
“My mom would be the one to go at the stanchion,” Towns said, “or be there and wave at me until I said hi to her or came and hugged her.”
“It was really the first time having family watch me playing in person,” Towns continued. “And it’s crazy seeing my dad. I’m like, ‘Where’s my mom? She’s gonna come.’ And, obviously, she’s not gonna show up. That affected me, but I go out there and play the best I can for this team.”
“It’s emotional,” Towns Sr. added. “I’m glad to be back supporting him. It’s what she would’ve wanted, too.”
