JJ McCarthy claims he is a 'converted Wolves fan' in NBA fandom

Perhaps JJ McCarthy is already proving to be good luck for Minnesota as a whole, as the Timberwolves have enjoyed some major success since the former Michigan quarterback became a Viking.

Drafted with the team’s first-round selection to be their star of the future, McCarthy has been acquainting himself with the city. He’s not letting prior NBA fandom get in the way, as the quarterback has already chosen to support the Timberwolves moving forward.

As Minnesota is in a battle with the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference Semifinals at the moment, they’re utilizing all the support they can get. The former Wolverines star is certainly keeping an eye on the hardwood at the moment.

“Huge NBA fan,” McCarthy told the media, asked about his basketball prowess. “Converted Wolves fan, that’s for sure. Love everything that they’re doing. They play well as a team. Obviously they’re a super athletic and super talented bunch.”

Minnesota as a whole has been starved for a title, and of course JJ McCarthy wants to deliver the Vikings their first Super Bowl. In the meantime, the Timberwolves are looking to do their part, and the Twin Cities could have a sports renascence on their hands if the quarterback plays his role.

JJ McCarthy on first practice with Vikings: ‘It didn’t feel like my first day’

This past weekend, JJ McCarthy participated in his first official practice with the Minnesota Vikings. When a reporter asked McCarthy how he felt it went, the rookie quarterback didn’t hesitate to speak his mind.

“It was simple because it didn’t feel like my first day,” McCarthy said. “I’ve been going over the offense for a long time now, so being able to go out there and actually be able to perform and execute it, that’s new. But, it was nothing that was overwhelming or too much.”

It’s no surprise to see the former Michigan standout oozing confidence. After all, the Minnesota Vikings traded up in the 2024 NFL Draft to select him with the No. 10 overall pick. His time in college only amplified McCarthy’s belief in himself.

In the 2023 campaign at Michigan, McCarthy started all 15 games, tallying 2,991 passing yards with 22 touchdowns and four interceptions. The 6-foot-3 junior also compiled 202 yards and three scores on the ground.

Fueled by McCarthy’s excellent play behind center, Michigan reeled in its first national title since 1997. For his efforts, McCarthy was named the Griese-Brees Big Ten Quarterback of the Year and a Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award finalist.

On3’s Grant Grubbs contributed to this article.