### Major Shift in Minnesota Sports: Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore Take Ownership of Timberwolves and Lynx The Minnesota Timberwolves and the WNBA's Minnesota Lynx have officially transitioned to new ownership under former MLB star Alex Rodriguez and e-commerce entrepreneur Marc Lore. This significant change marks the end of Glen Taylor's 31-year tenure as owner, concluding a complex and contentious sale process that spanned over four years. The NBA Board of Governors unanimously approved the $1.5 billion sale, which is expected to finalize this week, allowing Rodriguez and Lore to take control of both franchises [https://www.apnews.com/article/timberwolves-lynx-sale-20622fb7798002ed1b73a2198ae908d3][https://www.forbes.com/sites/tylerroush/2025/06/24/nba-approves-15-billion-minnesota-timberwolves-sale-to-alex-rodriguez-group-after-dispute]. ### Breakdown of the Ownership Transition Process 1. **Initial Agreement and Delays**: - The sale was initially agreed upon in 2021 but faced delays due to disputes, including Glen Taylor's attempt to back out of the deal, leading to arbitration [https://www.forbes.com/sites/tylerroush/2025/06/24/nba-approves-15-billion-minnesota-timberwolves-sale-to-alex-rodriguez-group-after-dispute]. 2. **Unanimous Approval**: - On June 24, 2025, the NBA Board of Governors voted unanimously to approve the sale, marking a pivotal moment in the franchise's history [https://www.startribune.com/nba-owners-unanimously-approve-15-billion-sale-of-minnesota-timberwolves-wnbas-lynx/601378696]. 3. **Future Plans**: - Rodriguez and Lore have expressed their commitment to building a franchise that embodies excellence and pride, with plans for an introductory press conference during the NBA Summer League [https://www.nbcsports.com/nba/news/nba-owners-unanimously-approve-1-5b-sale-of-wolves-wnbas-lynx-from-taylor-to-lore-rodriguez-group]. ### Key Data Points on the Sale - **Sale Price**: $1.5 billion for both the Timberwolves and Lynx [https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/basketball/articles/minnesota-timberwolves-lynx-sold-for-1-5-billion-2025-06-25]. - **Duration of Ownership Transition**: Over four years from the initial agreement to final approval [https://www.frontofficesports.com/timberwolves-4-year-ownership-saga-ends-as-a-rod-lore-take-over]. - **Historical Context**: Glen Taylor purchased the Timberwolves in 1995 for $89 million, highlighting the significant increase in franchise value [https://www.sportico.com/business/team-sales/2025/minnesota-timberwolves-sale-arod-lore-approved-nba-1234857876]. ### Conclusion: A New Era for Minnesota Basketball The transition of ownership from Glen Taylor to Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore signifies a transformative moment for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx. 1. **End of an Era**: Taylor's 31-year ownership concludes, paving the way for new leadership [https://www.startribune.com/nba-board-of-governors-unanimously-approves-sale-of-timberwolves-and-lynx/601372037]. 2. **Commitment to Excellence**: Rodriguez and Lore are poised to lead the franchises into a new era, focusing on building a legacy of success [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/nba_board_of_governors_unanimously_approves_timberwolves_lynx_sale/s1_14822_42370740]. 3. **Future Prospects**: The new owners plan to engage with fans and enhance the overall experience for both teams [https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/sale-of-timberwolves-to-marc-lore-alex-rodriguez-for-1-5b-officially-approved-by-nba-board-of-governors]. This ownership change not only reflects the evolving landscape of professional sports but also sets the stage for potential growth and revitalization of the franchises in the coming years.