Crunch the Wolf is the mascot of the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Who Is Crunch the Wolf?
Crunch the Wolf is the official mascot of the NBA's Minnesota Timberwolves. He was created in 2003 and was named after the team's "Crunch" logo. Crunch is a lovable and enthusiastic wolf who is always up for a good time. He loves to entertain fans of all ages with his energetic antics and comical hijinks.
When Did Crunch the Wolf Debut?
Crunch the Wolf made his first appearance in 2003 at the Timberwolves' home opener against the Utah Jazz. Since then, he has been a regular at Timberwolves home games and also makes frequent appearances at various community and charity events.
Who’s Inside Crunch the Wolf?
Crunch the Wolf is performed by two people. One person is the primary performer, while the other is the "loop runner." The primary performer is the person who performs the mascot's signature moves and interacts with fans. The loop runner is the person who assists the primary performer and helps to ensure that the performance runs smoothly.
How Much Does Crunch the Wolf Make?
Crunch the Wolf's salary is not public information, but it is estimated to be around $25,000 per year.
History of Crunch the Wolf:
Crunch the Wolf was created in 2003.
When the Minnesota Timberwolves were founded in 1989, the team's ownership group decided that the team needed a mascot to help bring the franchise to life. The team held a contest to design the mascot, and the winner an artist who created a character based on a timberwolf.
The character was given the name “Crunch” and he has been the team’s mascot ever since.
Is Crunch the Wolf the only Minnesota Timberwolves mascot?
No, Crunch the Wolf is not the only mascot for the Timberwolves. The team has had several other mascots over the years, including T-Wolves, the Wolf Pack, and Prowley the Wolf. None of these mascots were as popular as Crunch, however, and he remains the most recognizable mascot for the Timberwolves.
Crunch the Wolf Fun Facts:
• Crunch the Wolf was introduced as the Minnesota Timberwolves’ mascot in 1992.
• The name “Crunch” was chosen as a tribute to the Minnesota North Stars, a former pro hockey team that played in the state from 1967-1993.
• Crunch the Wolf was the first mascot in the NBA to be a wolf.
• The Timberwolves organization has acknowledged that Crunch the Wolf is an important part of the team’s identity and has embraced him as an unofficial team member.
• In 2017, Crunch was inducted into the Mascot Hall of Fame.
• In 2019, Crunch was named one of the top mascots in the NBA by ESPN.