Karl-Anthony Towns receives memorable welcome to Target Center

Karl-Anthony Towns made his return to Minnesota to face his old team, the Timberwolves, on Thursday.

The New York Knicks center was dealt by the Timberwolves days before training camp in September. Drafted No. 1 in 2015, he spent nine seasons with Minnesota. Towns earned four All-Star Game appearances and two All-NBA honors during his tenure with the Timberwolves. He posted a thank you video on social media hours before the game.

Before the contest, the Timberwolves crowd returned the favor with a rousing ovation during a heartfelt video tribute.

Here's a look at other notable happy returns for stars across multiple sports.

NBA

Klay Thompson, 2024

Game stats:22 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists

Game results: Dallas Mavericks lose 120-117

Thompson returned to the Bay Area in November to face his former team, the Golden State Warriors, at Chase Arena.

Dubbed "Salute Captain Klay" night, the Warriors showered Thompson with love throughout the evening, highlighted by a video tribute that aired before his name was announced in the Dallas starting five and fans tipped their caps in respect.

In his words:"I appreciate the fans very much. The captain's hat ended up being a great touch because I'm such a passionate boater. Saw a lot of familiar faces in the crowd, and that was a warmhearted feeling. It was really cool to see the fans, their gratitude towards myself -- and something I'll never take for granted. So it was very, very awesome."

Damian Lillard, 2024

Game stats: 25 points, 7 assists, 6 rebounds, 1 steal

Game result:Milwaukee Buckslose119-116

After spending the first 11 years of his career with the Trail Blazers, Lillard played his first game in Portland as a member of the Milwaukee Bucks in January 2024.

Fans gave him a standing ovation when his name was announced in the starting lineups at the Moda Center. The home team also played a video tribute after the first timeout, leading to another ovation for Lillard.