Hornets Announcer Baffled By Standing Ovation For Wolves Rookie Rob Dillingham
The moment Rob Dillingham, a rookie point guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves, entered the Target Center court, the home crowd erupted in a thunderous standing ovation. It was a surreal spectacle for Hornets announcer Dell Curry, who witnessed the stirring display from the visiting team’s broadcast booth.
Background
Dillingham, the 12th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, had yet to make his NBA debut due to a foot injury. However, his reputation as a prodigious talent had preceded him, having led North Carolina’s Brewster Academy to a national championship in 2020 and earning Gatorade Player of the Year honors in his senior season.
Key Facts and Latest Updates
When Dillingham finally took the court with the Timberwolves for his preseason debut against the Charlotte Hornets, the Target Center crowd greeted him with an ovation that lasted several minutes. Dell Curry, broadcasting the game for the Hornets, was visibly taken aback:
“I’ve never seen a rookie get a standing ovation before they even play a minute in the NBA,” Curry remarked on the broadcast.
Dillingham went on to impress in his debut, scoring 12 points, dishing out 6 assists, and grabbing 4 rebounds in 21 minutes of play. The Wolves eventually defeated the Hornets 118-113.
Analysis and Impact
Dillingham’s standing ovation from the Minnesota crowd is a testament to the high expectations surrounding the young guard. As the son of legendary former Wolves player Rashad Dillingham, Rob has grown up in the spotlight and has always been destined for NBA stardom.
“It was a special moment,” said Wolves head coach Chris Finch. “He’s a special talent, and the fans can already see that.”
Dillingham’s performance in his debut game only further fueled the excitement surrounding his potential. As he continues to develop and gain more playing time, the ovation he received from the Target Center crowd could become a regular occurrence.
The Hornets, who are still rebuilding under new management, can only hope to witness such enthusiasm for their own young players in the near future.
