Timberwolves' Karl-Anthony Towns returns from COVID-19 absence

Feb. 10 (UPI) -- Minnesota Timberwolves star big man Karl-Anthony Towns returned to the court for the first time since January to play against the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday night.

Towns, who hadn't suited up since Jan. 13, made his return from reconditioning after a stint in the NBA's health and safety protocols. He missed 13 consecutive games after announcing on Jan. 15 that he tested positive for COVID-19.

His diagnosis came nine months after his mother, Jacqueline, died at 59 from coronavirus complications. She battled the virus for a month.

Towns said before the season started that six other family members have died from COVID-19 complications.

Wednesday's game was only Towns' fifth this season. Entering the matchup against the Clippers, he was averaging 22 points, 12.5 rebounds and 4.3 assists in the 2020-21 campaign.

Towns has averaged 22.7 points and 11.8 rebounds in 362 career games with the Timberwolves.