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Former Illinois basketball star puts Minnesota Timberwolves on back in NBA Playoffs

The Minnesota Timberwolves took a commanding 3-1 series lead over the Denver Nuggets behind this monstrous performance by an Illinois basketball legend.
ByKellen Sherman|
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Apr 25, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Ayo Dosunmu (13) celebrates with fans after making a three-point shot against the Denver Nuggets in the fourth quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-Imagn Images
Apr 25, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Ayo Dosunmu (13) celebrates with fans after making a three-point shot against the Denver Nuggets in the fourth quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-Imagn Images | Matt Blewett-Imagn Images

The Minnesota Timberwolves are firing on all cylinders in this year's NBA Playoffs, especially after taking a commanding 3-1 series lead over the Denver Nuggets, which was led by Illinois basketball legend Ayo Dosunmu.

It was a dominating win for the Timberwolves on Saturday night in Minneapolis, as they took down the visiting Nuggets by a score of 112-96. They were able to make a statement in front of their hometown crowd, especially with the former Illini guard having a career night at the Toyota Center.

Dosunmu, a product of Brad Underwood's era, entered Saturday night's game early in the first quarter after a devastating Achilles injury suffered by Dante DiVincenzo. He started as a replacement but ended up becoming the main attraction with his 43 points through 42 minutes of play.

The former Chicago Bull became a shining light for Chris Finch's squad, as he was perfect from the free throw line and from three-point range. Dosunmu's performance against Denver was legendary to the point where he became the first player to score 40+ points, shoot 75% from the field, hit 5+ three-pointers without missing, and make 10+ free throws without missing

Ayo Dosunmu should continue to be a pivotal part of Minnesota's playoff run

Dosunmu's career has been a bit of a roller coaster ever since he left Illinois, spending four and a half years with the Bulls and the rest with the Timberwolves. But Saturday night in Minneapolis, the former Windy City recruit had a bit of a "coming out" party in his first extended shift in the playoffs.

Dosunmu became a key focal point in Minnesota's offense, scoring at will from all three levels on the floor. He made the most of his time after DiVincenzo's injury and ended up leading the team to a pivotal playoff win.

Now, with both DiVincezo and Anthony Edwards out for game five due to injury, we should expect Finch to turn to Illinois' superstar in their time of need. This will be the perfect stage for Dosunmu to elevate his status to the next level and become a bigger name in the NBA than he already is.

It's always sad to see players get injured, especially ones of DiVincenzo and Edwards' ilk. But this is Dosunmu's shot to really cement his legacy, and we need to be ready for the run of a lifetime.

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