The start of NBA free agency is always packed with blockbuster moves, contract drama, and roster shakeups. But amid all the headline-grabbing deals and superstar signings, it was a humble one-year contract extension that unexpectedly sparked a viral moment online — thanks to New York Knicks forward Josh Hart’s signature wit.
On June 30, as the 2025 NBA free agency window opened, the Minnesota Timberwolves quietly announced they were bringing back veteran forward Joe Ingles on a one-year deal worth $3.6 million. It was a move that flew under the radar compared to the summer’s bigger transactions, but it quickly caught the attention of Hart, who couldn’t resist taking a lighthearted jab at his longtime NBA peer.
“Man someone tell him to go head and retire already,” Hart posted on X (formerly Twitter), sparking laughs across social media.
While the comment might appear disrespectful out of context, NBA fans familiar with the league’s playful culture recognized it instantly as the kind of sarcastic humor that flows between veterans who’ve built rapport through years of battles on and off the court. Hart, well-known for his comedic social media presence, was just doing what he does best — blending basketball news with hilarious commentary.
Joe Ingles: More Than Just a Veteran Minimum
At 36 years old, Joe Ingles isn’t being re-signed by Minnesota for his scoring punch — and the numbers reflect that. Last season, the Aussie appeared in only 19 games, averaging 0.8 points and six minutes per game. By any statistical measure, it was the least productive year of his NBA career.
But stats don’t always tell the full story.
Since entering the NBA in 2014 with the Utah Jazz, Ingles has built a reputation as one of the league’s most intelligent, selfless, and savvy role players. His most impressive campaign came during the 2020-21 season, when he averaged 12.1 points, 4.7 assists, and 3.6 rebounds, finishing as a runner-up in the NBA Sixth Man of the Year voting.
Despite declining minutes and production, Ingles continues to be highly valued for his leadership, locker room presence, and mentorship abilities. Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch has consistently praised Ingles for his behind-the-scenes contributions, particularly his impact on the team’s younger stars like Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels.
One of the most memorable moments of last season came when Coach Finch gave Ingles a starting nod in a game that had little playoff significance — but tremendous personal meaning. That night, Ingles’ autistic son was in attendance and got to witness his father in the starting lineup, a moment that resonated emotionally across the league.
Why the Timberwolves Wanted Ingles Back
After reaching the Western Conference Finals in back-to-back seasons, the Timberwolves are no longer seen as underdogs — they're now a serious contender in the West. But as any championship-caliber team knows, it's not just about star power. It’s about building a winning culture.
Re-signing Ingles reflects that philosophy.
His presence on the roster isn’t about box scores — it’s about chemistry, accountability, and professionalism. These are the same qualities the Miami Heat valued in Udonis Haslem for nearly two decades, and that the Indiana Pacers sought when they added James Johnson to guide their younger core.
The timing also makes perfect sense: in the 2025 NBA Draft, Minnesota selected Rocco Zikarsky, a high-upside 7’3” Australian prospect. Bringing back Ingles, one of Australia’s most respected basketball figures, ensures the rookie has a mentor who not only speaks his language — literally and figuratively — but can help him navigate the adjustment to life in the NBA.
Hart’s Tweet: A Classic NBA Roast, Not a Shot
To outsiders, Josh Hart’s tweet might seem like a dig. But in NBA circles, it’s more of a rite of passage.
This kind of playful roast has become part of the culture — a way for players to express both admiration and amusement about someone’s longevity. Just as Jimmy Butler and Buddy Hield routinely joke with each other during games, Hart’s remark was another example of the NBA’s unique locker room brotherhood spilling onto the internet.
In fact, many players would take such a roast as a backhanded compliment. Being in the league long enough to become the target of these jokes means you've outlasted hundreds of players, stayed in shape, remained relevant, and earned the respect of your peers.
And for someone like Ingles — whose journey began as an overlooked international signing and evolved into a 12-year NBA career — it’s a badge of honor.
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