The Saunders legacy runs thick through the Minnesota Timberwolves organization.
For eleven years Flip Saunders served as head coach of the team, adding President of Basketball Operations to his responsibilities for the final year. During his second stint, Flip brought his son Ryan along for the ride back to coach for the team team that he had cheered for in his youth.
After Flip's tragic passing, Ryan stayed on staff with the interim crew and also with Tom Thibodeau's staff. When Thibs was let go, Saunders was the natural fill in.
Last night in Ryan's first game as the interim head coach, the son tributed the father with his first play call of the game. Leading towards the tipoff, only Ryan and his mother knew of his intent, but former players of Flip's recognized the play-call anywhere.
Here's Ryan joining NBA TV to explain the play call to honor his late father to start last night's game versus the Thunder.