Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch endured a frightening moment during the team’s Game 4 victory against the Phoenix Suns on Sunday night. The game, which sealed the Timberwolves’ sweep of the Suns, took a worrisome turn when Finch was injured late in the contest.
Chris Finch "feared to have a torn patellar tendon" on his knee following the collision with Mike Conley late in Game 4, per @ShamsCharania pic.twitter.com/gRNFrHuuKq
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 29, 2024
The incident occurred with less than two minutes remaining in the game and the Timberwolves holding a 117–113 lead. Mike Conley of the Suns collided with Finch after losing control of the ball while driving down the court. The impact left Finch clutching his knee in pain as he lay on the court, requiring assistance from team staff to leave the floor.
Despite Finch’s absence for the remainder of the game, the Timberwolves managed to maintain their lead and secure the series sweep, advancing to the second round of the playoffs.
Following the game, Timberwolves assistant coach Micah Nori provided an update on Finch’s condition, stating that medical evaluations were underway. However, NBA insider Shams Charania later reported that Finch is feared to have suffered a torn patellar tendon in his knee due to the collision.
While Finch’s injury is undoubtedly a setback for the Timberwolves, the team’s advancement to the next round provides him with additional time to recover. Furthermore, the injury to the coach serves as a reminder of the physical toll of playoff basketball and the resilience required to navigate postseason competition.
