Michael Rand
Columnist / Reporter
RandBallMichael Rand is a North Dakota native, a graduate of the University of Minnesota and an enthusiastic consumer of tacos. He lives in Eagan with his wife, three children and one energetic pug.
Latest from Michael Rand
Sports
RandBall: So, would you trade Anthony Edwards for Luka Dončić?
A report said the Mavericks reached out to the Wolves before their blockbuster trade with the Lakers. Let’s use that as a thought experiment.
February 28, 2025
Sports
Podcast: Kevin O’Connell’s contract + the trouble with tagging Sam Darnold
Introduction: Host Michael Rand starts with the Timberwolves' loss to the Lakers on Thursday, which had a number of subplots. He was joined by Star Tribune Vikings writer Ben Goessling, who has all sorts of updates from the scouting combine in Indianapolis.
February 28, 2025
Wolves
RandBall: Pistons are the NBA’s hottest team, and Wolves fans couldn’t be happier
Detroit’s eight-game winning streak makes it increasingly likely the surprising Pistons will make the playoffs (and the Wolves will get a first-round draft pick in 2025).
February 27, 2025
Sports
Podcast: A damaging loss for Gophers women’s hoops; La Velle E. Neal on Twins sale
Introduction: Host Michael Rand starts with the Gophers women’s basketball team’s loss to Washington on Wednesday, a blow to their NCAA tourney hopes. La Velle E. Neal III joins Rand on three subjects for their weekly debate segment.
February 27, 2025
Sports
RandBall: With QB options, Vikings remain 27.5 million steps ahead of Falcons
The Vikings' QB dilemma is headed toward an outcome, but all options have merit. The Falcons and Kirk Cousins, on the other hand, are stuck.
February 26, 2025
Sports
Podcast: Who plays for Timberwolves when everyone is healthy? + Vikings QB decision
Host Michael Rand starts with comments from Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah at the scouting combine Tuesday. Star Tribune Timberwolves writer Chris Hine joins Rand for a look at where Minnesota stands after a thrilling comeback win over Oklahoma City.
February 26, 2025
Wolves
RandBall: Even with their flaws, Timberwolves shouldn’t be afraid of anyone in playoffs
Monday’s stirring comeback win at Oklahoma City was just the latest example of Minnesota being able to compete against anyone.
February 25, 2025
Sports
Podcast: Girls' hockey and high school rivalries; a Wolves comeback for the ages
Host Michael Rand starts with the Timberwolves' stunning comeback victory over West-leading Oklahoma City. Then Star Tribune high school writer Cassidy Hettesheimer joins Rand on several subjects.
February 25, 2025
Sports
RandBall: With QB options, Vikings remain 27.5 million steps ahead of Falcons
The Vikings' QB dilemma is headed toward an outcome, but all options have merit. The Falcons and Kirk Cousins, on the other hand, are stuck.
February 26, 2025
Sports
Podcast: Who plays for Timberwolves when everyone is healthy? + Vikings QB decision
Host Michael Rand starts with comments from Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah at the scouting combine Tuesday. Star Tribune Timberwolves writer Chris Hine joins Rand for a look at where Minnesota stands after a thrilling comeback win over Oklahoma City.
February 26, 2025
Wolves
RandBall: Even with their flaws, Timberwolves shouldn’t be afraid of anyone in playoffs
Monday’s stirring comeback win at Oklahoma City was just the latest example of Minnesota being able to compete against anyone.
February 25, 2025
Sports
Podcast: Girls' hockey and high school rivalries; a Wolves comeback for the ages
Host Michael Rand starts with the Timberwolves' stunning comeback victory over West-leading Oklahoma City. Then Star Tribune high school writer Cassidy Hettesheimer joins Rand on several subjects.
February 25, 2025