Jamal Crawford Says Signing with Timberwolves Wasn't About Chasing Championship

With Jamal Crawford reportedly on the verge of joining the Minnesota Timberwolves, the NBA's star sixth man says he isn't making the move to chase a championship.

Speaking to Jerry Zgoda of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, Crawford explained what he saw from the Timberwolves that appealed to him:

“They showed they were serious, trying to get things done right away. I felt like the time is right. I felt like I could fit. At this point of my career, I could easily chase a championship. I’m not saying we won’t compete, but it’s not about that. I want to take the journey and go through the wars with these guys. The Cavs, they’ve been there. Those guys know what it’s like to be in the Finals and win a championship. The Warriors, same deal. If I went there and let’s say we happen to win, what’s next? Sometimes it’s more gratifying to help teams go from one point to another point."

Crawford still hasn't officially signed with the Timberwolves, though Shams Charania of the Vertical reported on July 8 the two sides were in "serious talks" after he cleared waivers. 

The Timberwolves have undergone big changes already this offseason, adding Jimmy Butler in a trade with the Chicago Bulls and signing free agent Jeff Teague. They are also bringing back Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins. 

After missing the playoffs for the 13th consecutive season last year, the Timberwolves appear to be putting all their chips on the table now in an effort to challenge the Golden State Warriors, San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets atop the Western Conference.