What happened: Ball transitions to number 1 after sporting number 2 throughout his earlier NBA tenure. The numerical assignment finalizes the guard's locker room integration following his offseason trade to Minnesota. Terrence Shannon Jr. held jersey number 1 during the 2025-26 season before Ball acquired the assignment.

Why it matters: Adding Ball reshapes Minnesota's offensive identity following the departure of Naz Reid and the three-team trade sending Julius Randle to Brooklyn. The backcourt overhaul comes as analysts weigh whether the Minnesota Timberwolves can reach 50 wins next season in the Western Conference standings. President of basketball operations Tim Connelly continues navigating roster adjustments and ongoing trade chatter surrounding forward Jaden McDaniels.

What to watch: Minnesota continues its offseason player evaluations during NBA Summer League play following recent two-way signings. The organization enters the remainder of the offseason building toward its finalized rotation for the 2026-27 campaign.