Mike Conley Announces 20th NBA Season, Targets Return to Timberwolves
Veteran NBA point guard Mike Conley has officially ruled out retirement, confirming his intention to play a 20th season. Following the Minnesota Timberwolves' playoff exit, the 38-year-old expressed confidence in his physical condition and desire to continue contributing. Although he becomes an unrestricted free agent, both Conley and Head Coach Chris Finch have indicated a strong mutual interest in re-signing with Minnesota. Conley’s leadership and experience remain highly valued by the team’s young core, shifting focus from his potential retirement to contract negotiations for the upcoming offseason.
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Timberwolves' Mike Conley Plans to Continue NBA Career After Playoff Exit
Minnesota Timberwolves veteran point guard Mike Conley has announced that he does not intend to retire following the team's season-ending playoff loss. Despite turning 39 years old in October and completing his 18th NBA season, Conley plans to return for at least one more year. His 2025-2026 campaign was marked by unusual circumstances, including a mid-season trade away from Minnesota, followed by his release and subsequent re-signing with the Timberwolves. Although he lost his starting role earlier in the season and saw reduced playing time, Conley delivered a solid performance during the playoffs. He started five postseason games, averaging 4.4 points and 2.7 assists per game, partly due to an injury to teammate Donte DiVincenzo. In the regular season, he appeared in 54 games, averaging 4.5 points and 2.9 assists while shooting 33.7% from three-point range. While his role is expected to remain limited in the 2026-27 season, Conley remains committed to continuing his professional basketball career in the NBA.
yahoo sportsTimberwolves Coach Chris Finch Advocates for Re-signing Mike Conley in Free Agency
Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch has publicly expressed strong support for re-signing veteran point guard Mike Conley as he approaches free agency. Following a playoff game victory against the San Antonio Spurs, Finch praised Conley’s competitiveness and winning mentality, emphasizing that there is always a role for him on the team. Despite being benched frequently during the regular season in favor of Donte DiVincenzo, Conley has indicated his desire to remain with the franchise. The 19-year veteran stated that Minnesota has become home for his family and expressed admiration for the organization, including president Tim Connelly and the coaching staff. The Timberwolves, boasting a young core featuring Anthony Edwards, Naz Reid, and Jaden McDaniels, are looking to maintain continuity for future playoff runs. If negotiations succeed, Conley is expected to enter his 20th NBA season with the Timberwolves. The article highlights the mutual interest between the player and the team, suggesting that a contract extension is likely despite Conley's upcoming free agent status.
yahoo sportsMike Conley Decides to Return to Timberwolves, Dismisses Retirement Rumors
Minnesota Timberwolves veteran point guard Mike Conley has officially decided to continue his NBA career, dismissing recent speculation about his potential retirement following the 2026 NBA Playoffs. At nearly 39 years old, Conley expressed confidence in his physical condition and ability to contribute, stating he feels he has more to offer on the court. This decision comes as a relief to Head Coach Chris Finch and star player Anthony Edwards, who value Conley's leadership and experience. During the recent playoff run, Conley served as a crucial secondary ballhandler, starting in five of the twelve games he played. His role as a floor general has been instrumental in guiding young talents like Edwards and Jaden McDaniels. As a member of the resilient 2007 draft class, Conley's choice to return for another season highlights his enduring impact and adaptability in the league. The Timberwolves are now expected to pursue re-signing him from free agency to maintain stability and mentorship within their roster for the upcoming season.
yahoo sportsMike Conley Rules Out Retirement, Plans 20th NBA Season
Minnesota Timberwolves veteran guard Mike Conley has announced that he does not intend to retire from the NBA, despite nearing two decades in the league. During his end-of-season media session, the 38-year-old explicitly stated his intention to play a 20th season, noting that he has proven to himself that he can continue playing at a high level. While Conley acknowledged that he will spend time reflecting on what is best for his family, he confirmed that his career will continue. The primary uncertainty now lies in which team he will join, as he is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason. There is no guarantee that the Timberwolves will re-sign him, but his experience and calming presence in the backcourt are expected to make him an attractive option for numerous other franchises. This announcement shifts the narrative from whether Conley will play again to where he will conclude or extend his lengthy professional basketball career.
yahoo sportsMike Conley Plans 20th NBA Season as Unrestricted Free Agent
Minnesota Timberwolves veteran point guard Mike Conley has announced his intention to play a 20th season in the NBA, despite becoming an unrestricted free agent following the team's playoff exit. The 38-year-old stated that his performance during the Western Conference semifinals against the San Antonio Spurs convinced him he can continue playing at a competitive level. Although Minnesota lost the series in Game 6, Conley averaged 5.7 points and shot 56% from three-point range in those six games. His 2025-26 season was marked by significant roster movement; he was initially traded to the Chicago Bulls in a three-team deal, then subsequently moved to the Charlotte Hornets. After being waived by Charlotte, league rules allowed him to re-sign with Minnesota due to the multiple transactions. Conley, who previously played for the Memphis Grizzlies and Utah Jazz, now faces the decision of where to continue his lengthy career, having averaged 13.6 points and 5.5 assists over his previous 19 seasons.
yahoo sportsMike Conley Rules Out Retirement, Plans to Play Longer
Veteran NBA point guard Mike Conley has officially announced that he will not be retiring from professional basketball at this time. In a recent statement reported by HoopsHype and cited by Chris Hine, Conley expressed confidence in his physical condition and ability to contribute on the court, stating, "I think I might’ve proved to myself I can play a little longer." This declaration comes as Conley approaches the end of his current contract, with the player set to become a free agent in the upcoming offseason. The decision suggests that Conley intends to continue his career for at least another season, aiming to leverage his experience and leadership in future team negotiations. As a long-standing figure in the league known for his consistency and professionalism, Conley's choice to remain active is significant for teams seeking veteran stability. The announcement clarifies speculation regarding his potential retirement and signals his readiness to enter the free agency market, where he will likely attract interest from contending teams valuing his playoff experience and steady playmaking abilities.
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