Photo: Minnesota Timberwolves/Twitter

Mike Conley’s influence on the Timberwolves goes beyond stats. His infectious attitude and wisdom are helping shape Minnesota’s culture – and inspiring younger teammates during a deep playoff run.

“Being around these guys, the atmosphere, the game. The competitive atmosphere every day… You don’t get this anywhere else,” he said.

Conley’s message to the locker room is simple: play with joy, or don’t play at all.

“If you see a day where I’m not smiling… tell me to retire.”

That mindset is resonating across the roster – and it’s part of why Conley wants to keep going.

“I’m having a ball,” he said. “I’m not ready to go home.”

Conley has played 18 seasons for the Grizzlies, Timberwolves, and Jazz. He has averaged 14.1 points, 5.7 assists, and 2.9 rebounds in 1,172 regular-season games.

He was selected to play in 1 All-Star game.