Milt Newton has described being named as general manager of the Minnesota Timberwolves as a "dream".

The North-West side appointed the former forward, who previously helped launch the NBA's development league, as their new GM earlier this month.

Speaking at a press conference, Newton said: "It means a lot to me, because as I mentioned this was the goal of mine and it became the dream for myself and my wife So to be able to share it with my family, who played an instrumental part in me getting to this point, was very gratifying.

"I believe in [president of basketball operations Flip [Saunders], and I believe in the vision he has along with Mr [owner Glen] Taylor, and we get along together. I truly believe if you like the people you work with, everything is easier.

"This has been my goal for 22 years and I was really fortunate to get to know Flip and like I said, we know each other well. I think we will work well together. I'm really blessed to be in this position."

The general manager's post at Minnesota had been vacant for two years.