WATCH: Rob Dillingham’s First Press Conference With the Minnesota Timberwolves

The Minnesota Timberwolves introduced Rob Dillingham in a press conference at Target Center on Wednesday. A fan favorite during his one year in Lexington, Dillingham was the eighth overall pick in last week’s NBA Draft. Minnesota traded up to acquire the former Wildcat, and today he answered questions about his new basketball home, starting with his initial feelings when the Timberwolves made a move to acquire him.

“It was just a crazy experience,” Dillingham explained. “The Timberwolves are one of the best teams in the NBA, so I wouldn’t think I would just go to a contender. So, when I saw that I was going to the Timberwolves, it was just a blessing.

“I was just happy to learn from so many veterans in the team and so many players who have done it,” he added. “When I spoke to the coach, he reassured me and told me that I would have a role as long as I have responsibility and do what I have to do. I feel like it’s a two-way street and as long as I do it the right way, then I’ll be fine.”

One of Dillingham’s new experienced teammates is Mike Conley“a legendary point guard,” in Dillingham’s words. The rookie and veteran will compete for ballhandling minutes in Minnesota’s backcourt. Still, Conley was one of the first to reach out to Dillingham.

“He just told me it was a great fit and a great place to learn, and that shows me that learning from him, that’s a big thing for me,” the former Kentucky star said, adding that the entire team reached out to him to tell him he was in a good situation if he was willing to work.

Later in the conversation, Dillingham was asked to name some of his favorite NBA players, which he politely declined because “we’re going to play them.”

Hear more from Dillingham and his fellow Wolves rookie Terrence Shannon Jr. in their introductory press conference below. They are eager to compete for a championship right away.

Dillingham wears number 4 in Minnesota