Photo: Indiana Mad Ants/YouTube

The Minnesota Timberwolves have made a move to bolster their roster, claiming two-way guard Tristen Newton off waivers, according to NBA insider Michael Scotto. This decision brings Newton to the Timberwolves after a brief stint with the Indiana Pacers.

Minnesota waived Daishen Nix before singing Newton, as reported by Jon Krawczynski.

Newton was selected as the 49th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Pacers and signed a two-way contract with them on July 27.

However, after being waived by Indiana on January 1, 2025, Newton found a new opportunity in Minnesota. The Timberwolves quickly claimed him off waivers on January 3, retaining his two-way contract status.

The 6-foot-5 guard made a strong impression in the G League, averaging 16.4 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game.

Before his professional journey, Newton had a successful college career. He began his collegiate path at East Carolina University, where he made an immediate impact as a freshman. Newton averaged 11 points and 3.7 assists per game while setting the Pirates’ program record for assists in a season by a freshman. His success continued throughout his college years, eventually leading to a breakout junior season.

During the 2022-23 season, Newton transferred to the University of Connecticut (UConn) after his coach, Joe Dooley, was dismissed. He quickly became a key figure for UConn under coach Dan Hurley, earning the starting point guard role.

His growth continued, and Newton helped UConn reach new heights, including a spot in the Final Four and an eventual NCAA championship in 2023. With a double-double in the championship game, Newton played a pivotal role in UConn’s fifth NCAA title. He also earned the prestigious title of Most Outstanding Player (MOP) in the tournament.

Newton’s success didn’t end there. During the 2023-24 season, he set several new records, including becoming the first player in UConn history to record three triple-doubles. He went on to add a fourth triple-double to his resume, making history as the first power conference player to achieve such a feat since Shaquille O’Neal.