Basketball often delivers moments that go past the sport and glimpses into the human stories behind the game. One recent Minnesota Timberwolves matchup became such an occasion, shifting the focus from points and rebounds to a deeply personal narrative. A simple act by the team’s coach sparked an outpouring of gratitude and emotion, revealing the profound impact a single gesture can have on a family’s life. Something Chris Finch did ahead of the Minnesota Timberwolves game against the New Orleans Pelicans warmed the hearts of everyone. He gave Joe Ingles his first start of the season. No, that’s not the heartwarming part.
No, it’s the reason that has everyone gushing. You see, the Ingles family, including their son Jacob who has autism, came out to see Joe play for the first time. So Finch decided to make this night more memorable for the family. And as it turns out, Joe’s wife, former netball player Renae Ingles is eternally grateful to Finch.
“Last night, Coach Chris Finch of the Timberwolves made a heartfelt gesture by starting my husband Joe for the first time since 2022, allowing our autistic son to hear his dad’s name called out… Words can’t fully express our gratitude for such kindness. Those minutes on the court meant so much more than just a basketball game,” wrote Renae on Instagram, sharing a few pictures of the family at the game, cheering for their dad from the stands.
Clearly, this moment meant a lot to everyone. Renae also mentioned how proud she was of Joe and Jacob for their hard work. She ended the post by acknowledging the “amazing people” within the Minnesota Timberwolves. Renae thanked the organization for how welcoming they’ve been to Joe Ingles and his family.
This moment during the game was moving for sure. But the road leading up to it has been very challenging. And Joe Ingles recently opened up about what it’s been like for him and his wife.
Joe Ingles makes stirring confession about son’s condition
When Joe found out that his son had autism, his demeanor changed. Gone was the silly, outgoing Joe; replaced by someone more cold and quiet. “People knew something was up,” he says in hindsight. And now Joe has revealed the reality he and his wife faced as they raised their son.
“Ever since he got diagnosed, it’s been what we have tried to do with the awareness of like – This s— is real!” said Joe. In the early 20th century, before widespread awareness and understanding of autism, families often faced isolation and societal stigma. Individuals like Temple Grandin, who later became a prominent advocate for autism awareness, experienced firsthand the challenges of a world ill-equipped to understand their unique needs.
He continued, “The reality is a little kind of screwed up in my opinion and the awareness is what we try and do. When there is a kid like that, try and help. Try and help the mom, try and help the dad. It’s a real thing. My wife has had so many situations when I’ve been away that she battles three kids or one kid like whatever you’ve got. It’s tough.” Joe’s candid admission highlights that while progress has been made, the daily struggles faced by parents remain a ‘real thing,’ demanding empathy and support.
But Joe is using his struggles to help spread awareness about how difficult things can get for families in such situations. And he knows using his platform is the perfect way to raise awareness about this. Nonetheless, the game against the Pelicans was a night when the Ingles family could simply enjoy life and briefly forget about their struggles as they watched Joe take to the court in front of their eyes for the first time.
And the night was made doubly sweet since the T-Wolves decimated the Pelicans 134-93. It’s moments like this that make us love this game. Don’t you agree?
The post Joe Ingles’ Wife Renae Breaks Silence Over Chris Finch’s Heartfelt Gesture After Timberwolves Star’s Confession Over Tough Reality appeared first on EssentiallySports.
