MINNEAPOLIS — In a moment that transcended the sport itself, Minnesota Timberwolves veteran Joe Ingles received his frist NBA start in three years on Friday, march 21, 2025, a gesture orchestrated so his 8-year-old son, Jacob, who has autism, coudl witness his father in action firsthand.

The Timberwolves’ Friday night game against the New Orleans Pelicans wasn’t just another contest in the playoff chase; it was a deeply personal milestone for Ingles and his family. Head Coach Chris Finch made the decision to insert Ingles into the starting lineup, marking not only Ingles’ first start of the season but also his first since January 2022.

While Ingles played for six minutes, contributing an assist in the Timberwolves’ dominant 134-93 victory over the Pelicans, the importance of the night extended far beyond the box score. The opportunity for Jacob to see his father on the court, experiencing the energy and excitement of an NBA game, was the victory that truly mattered.

According to sources, Ingles’ wife and children, who had been residing in Orlando where Ingles played last season for the Magic, were visiting him in Minnesota for the first time this week. While there were initial concerns about how Jacob would react to the sensory overload of an NBA arena, he had successfully attended a game earlier in the week, albeit one where his father didn’t play.

A Coach’s Perspective

Timberwolves Head Coach Chris Finch articulated the rationale behind his decision, emphasizing the human element that ofen gets overshadowed in the high-stakes world of professional sports. Sometimes you just have to do something that makes sense to people, Finch explained after the game. We often say that ‘every minute is important,’ and the importance of these minutes comes from another level.

Finch further elaborated on the team’s enthusiastic support for the gesture. Someone asked me this idea and said that Inggaus should be played. I just thought that since I wanted to do it, I should do it more stylish. The players are very supportive, and I think this just brings us a new energy and motivation. We don’t have the opportunity to do this often,we are really happy to achieve this moment.

This sentiment resonates with a growing awareness in the NBA and other professional sports leagues about the importance of mental health and family support. Teams are increasingly recognizing that athletes are not just performers but individuals with complex lives and needs.

Ingles on Autism Awareness

Ingles, a seasoned NBA veteran, has been a vocal advocate for autism awareness and support. He addressed the unique challenges of raising a child with autism and the critical need for greater understanding and resources. It’s true, no matter who you are, what kind of life you live, how much money you have is useless, Ingles stated, highlighting the universal nature of the challenges faced by families affected by autism.

He continued, Jacob doesn’t care whether I play basketball or not… He just wants his father to be at home. every time I say I want to go to a game, he will say, ‘Oh…’ I beleive many children are like this, not just me.

Ingles’ candidness underscores the importance of empathy and connection within families dealing with autism. While professional athletes often appear to live glamorous lives, Ingles’ words serve as a reminder of the everyday struggles and joys shared by families across the country.

The NBA player also discussed his commitment to advocacy. We will continue to promote cognition and help other families, but I think everyone should understand that this is true and cannot be solved by having money.The only thing we can do is keep talking and sharing, so that Jacob can find his own space in this crazy world. This stance is similar to that of numerous other celebrities, such as Colin Farrell, who have used their platform to advocate for autism awareness, working with organizations like Autism Speaks to raise research funding and promote awareness.

Recent CDC data estimates that 1 in 36 children in the U.S. are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This underscores the need for increased research, resources, and support systems for individuals with autism and their families. Organizations like the Autism Society of America and the National Autism center offer valuable resources, support groups, and advocacy initiatives.

ingles’ Career Trajectory

Joe Ingles has carved out a respected career over eleven NBA seasons. After spending the majority of his career with the Utah Jazz,he has,in recent years,become a journeyman,playing for the Timberwolves,Orlando Magic,and Milwaukee Bucks.While his scoring average this season stands at 0.8 points, frequently enough finding himself on the bench, his leadership and veteran presence remain valuable assets to any team.

His journey reflects the realities of many NBA players who navigate the challenges of maintaining a career while balancing family responsibilities. Ingles’ dedication to his son Jacob, coupled with his commitment to raising autism awareness, exemplifies the positive impact athletes can have beyond the basketball court.

The Broader Impact

Ingles’ act, while deeply personal, has broader implications. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusivity and acceptance for individuals with autism.By sharing his family’s story, Ingles is helping to break down stigmas and promote understanding within communities across the U.S.

This event can also inspire other organizations and businesses to create more inclusive and supportive environments for individuals with autism and their families. Simple changes, such as providing quiet rooms or sensory-friendly events, can make a significant difference in the lives of those with ASD.

The NBA is increasingly recognizing its role in promoting social causes. Commissioner Adam Silver has consistently supported initiatives related to social justice,education,and health. Ingles’ story aligns perfectly with the league’s commitment to making a positive impact on society.