Dave Joerger grew up in Staples, Minnesota and played his college ball in Moorhead.
He grew up watching the Timberwolves.
Shortly after college, he got into coaching with the Dakota Wizards, a CBA team.
Finally, after more than 15 years in the minor leagues and as an assistant, Joerger got his opportunity as a head coach with the Memphis Grizzlies.
His role model throughout this process?
Timberwolves coach Flip Saunders, who had also put his time in the basketball minor leagues.
“As a younger guy growing up, all I ever wanted to do was be like Flip Saunders,” Joerger, now the head coach of the Kings, said.