Tensions were high during the preseason matchup between the New York Knicks and Minnesota Timberwolves.
Key Takeaways
- Donte DiVincenzo had a heated exchange with Knicks assistant coach Rick Brunson after a preseason game.
- DiVincenzo’s trade from the Knicks ended what could have been a full “Nova Four” reunion in New York, leaving Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges as the remaining Villanova alumni on the Knicks.
- DiVincenzo expressed frustration at being traded, even shouting a pointed comment at Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau during the game, suggesting resentment over how the trade was handled.
It all came to a head with a heated exchange between Donte DiVincenzo and Knicks assistant coach Rick Brunson.
This clash, which occurred just moments after the Knicks’ narrow 115-110 victory, has become a key talking point as emotions boiled over at Madison Square Garden.
Donte DiVincenzo and Rick Brunson had to be separated after exchanging words 😳
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 14, 2024
This was Donte's first game back in New York following the trade to Minnesota pic.twitter.com/CDt72FzEkH
DiVincenzo, who was recently traded from the Knicks as part of a deal involving All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns, returned to face his old team for the first time since the trade.
It was clear that feelings about the trade still lingered, as DiVincenzo was seen arguing with members of the Knicks’ sideline throughout the game.
At one point, during a free throw attempt, DiVincenzo even aimed a verbal jab at Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau, reportedly saying, “Thanks for the trade, Thibs … that’s what happens when they let you run the show.”
Donte DiVincenzo:
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) October 13, 2024
“That’s what happens when they let you run the show.” 👀
(h/t @IQfor3)
pic.twitter.com/cHzIB1U4Do
The situation escalated after the final whistle. As the teams lined up to shake hands, cameras caught Rick Brunson—Jalen Brunson’s father and a familiar figure to DiVincenzo from his time with the Villanova Wildcats—approaching DiVincenzo.
The two exchanged heated words until players and coaches had to intervene and separate them.
The dramatic moment drew attention to the simmering tensions between DiVincenzo and his former team.
Now Donte DiVincenzo into it with Jalen Brunson’s dad lmaoooooo
— Hater Report (@HaterReport_) October 14, 2024
That Nova Knicks 30 for 30 gonna go crazy pic.twitter.com/LHPGSUBK16
DiVincenzo’s reaction seemed to stem from frustration about being traded away from what was supposed to be a “Nova Four” reunion in New York alongside Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges.
This trade effectively ended his time with the Knicks, leaving DiVincenzo bitter about his sudden exit.
Sources indicate that while DiVincenzo has remained close friends with Jalen Brunson, the trade altered the dynamics of what could have been a powerful Villanova reunion on the Knicks roster.
"My love for Knicks fans is through the roof. It was one of the best years of my life playing here last year."
— Knicks Videos (@sny_knicks) October 13, 2024
Donte DiVincenzo on his season with the Knicks: pic.twitter.com/7r0qA2pBIF
DiVincenzo’s reputation as an emotional and competitive player has always been a defining trait, and it appears those emotions played a role in this preseason incident.
As the regular season approaches, the fallout from this clash will be something to watch, as DiVincenzo’s desire to prove himself against his former teammates could lead to some intense matchups down the road.
This incident adds an intriguing subplot to future games between the Timberwolves and the Knicks, particularly considering the personal relationships involved.
This didn't look like a friendly trash talk 👀 Donte DiVincenzo does not seem to be happy about the trade to Minnesota 🏀 Later Donte said this for New York: "My love for Knicks fans is through the roof. It was one of the best years of my life playing here last year." 🧡#NBA… pic.twitter.com/81OYAakQfc
— EssentiallySports (@es_sportsnews) October 14, 2024
The Knicks and Timberwolves will cross paths again in the regular season, and it’s safe to say that all eyes will be on DiVincenzo’s interactions with the Knicks’ coaching staff.
For now, the emotions are raw, and the saga between Donte DiVincenzo and his old team is far from over.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Before becoming an assistant coach, Rick Brunson had a nine-year NBA career playing for several teams, including the Portland Trail Blazers, New York Knicks, and Chicago Bulls.
- Donte DiVincenzo earned the nickname “The Big Ragu” during his time with the Milwaukee Bucks.
- Rick Brunson’s coaching career includes stints as an assistant coach across the NBA, such as with the Chicago Bulls, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Denver Nuggets.
