Minnesota’s incoming majority owner is reportedly committed to keeping the Timberwolves and Lynx in the state while pursuing a new arena.
The Minnesota Timberwolves are preparing for another ownership change, but the organization’s long-term future in the state appears to remain secure.
Marc Stad has agreed to acquire a controlling interest in the Timberwolves and the WNBA’s Minnesota Lynx from Marc Lore in a deal valuing the franchises at approximately $4.5 billion.
The ownership transition immediately raised questions about whether Minnesota’s plans for a new arena would survive the change in leadership.
According to The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski, Stad remains committed to both keeping the teams in Minnesota and pursuing a new home for the franchises.
“What I’m told on what is always the biggest question in a change of ownership power: Stad is fully on board with Lore and Rodriguez’s position that they will not move the Wolves and Lynx and is all in on building a new arena in Minnesota,” Krawczynski reported on X.
That commitment offers some reassurance for fans following an unexpected shakeup involving one of the NBA’s rising Western Conference contenders.
Ownership Change Brings Familiar Faces
Stad was already involved with the ownership group as a limited partner, making the transition less disruptive than a sale to an outside buyer unfamiliar with the organization.
Lore and former MLB star Alex Rodriguez initially entered an agreement to purchase the Timberwolves and Lynx from Glen Taylor at a $1.5 billion valuation in 2021. They completed their acquisition in June 2025 following a lengthy ownership dispute.
Now, Lore is reducing his stake as he focuses on his company, Wonder Group. He is expected to remain involved as a minority owner, while Rodriguez will also maintain a role and increase his ownership stake slightly, according to KSTP.
Nov 21, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guardAnthonyEdwards(5) and center RudyGobert(27) react as they walk off the court after losing to the Phoenix Suns in the second half of an NBA Cup game at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesThe deal still requires approval from the NBA’s Board of Governors.
The change does not appear to signal an immediate reset for the organization’s basketball operations. Instead, Minnesota’s leadership can continue building around Anthony Edwards while pursuing its broader business plans.
Why a New Arena Matters
Target Center has served as the Timberwolves’ home since opening in October 1990 and also hosts the Lynx.
The city-owned venue has undergone renovations, but it remains one of the NBA’s oldest arenas. A new building could provide updated player facilities, additional premium seating and greater year-round revenue opportunities.
Nov 10, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves center RudyGobert(27) and guardAnthonyEdwards(5) shake hands after a play against the Utah Jazz during the second half at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn ImagesJust as significant, a long-term arena commitment would reinforce ownership’s intention to keep both franchises in Minnesota.
No finalized location, financing structure or construction timeline has been publicly established.
On the court, the Timberwolves are attempting to take the next step after adding LaMelo Ball to a roster already led by Edwards. Minnesota opens its season Oct. 21 against Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Miami Heat.
The combination of an aggressive roster move and a potential arena project suggests the ownership group is focused on strengthening the franchise’s future in Minnesota.
For now, Stad’s reported position offers a clear message: An ownership change is not expected to change where the Timberwolves and Lynx call home.
