The Minnesota Timberwolves have added backcourt depth by signing former UCLA guard Jules Bernard to a two-way contract, the team announced Wednesday. While financial details were not disclosed in accordance with team policy, Bernard will continue playing primarily with the Iowa Wolves, Minnesota’s NBA G League affiliate.
The move fills an open two-way roster spot created after the Timberwolves waived Johnny Juzang. Under NBA rules, Bernard will be eligible to appear in up to 14 games for Minnesota during the remainder of the regular season. To participate in the playoffs, he would need to be converted to a standard contract and added to the 15-man roster.
Bernard thriving in the G League
Bernard, 26, has been one of the most productive guards in the G League this season. In 37 appearances for Iowa – including 33 starts – he is averaging 22.5 points in 34.5 minutes per game. He is shooting between 42.5% and 42.9% from the field, roughly 35% from three-point range, and just over 80% from the free-throw line.
His impact extends beyond scoring. Bernard is also contributing 6.6 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 1.1 steals per contest, showcasing a well-rounded skill set that likely caught Minnesota’s attention.
The Los Angeles native has delivered several standout performances this season. He eclipsed the 30-point mark six times, including a 38-point outing against the Long Island Nets on January 18. On February 7, he posted 30 points with eight made three-pointers and recorded season highs of 13 rebounds and 13 assists in a 123-120 win over the Maine Celtics.
Previous NBA experience with Wizards for Bernard
Although undrafted in 2022, Bernard has already logged NBA experience. He signed a two-way contract with the Washington Wizards during the 2023-24 season and appeared in 19 games, totaling 149 minutes of action. In limited opportunities, he averaged 3.9 points on 45.3% shooting, including 37.9% from beyond the arc, along with 1.4 rebounds in just under eight minutes per game.
Bernard made his NBA debut on December 8, 2023, against the Brooklyn Nets.
Before turning professional, Bernard spent four seasons with the UCLA Bruins. Across 130 collegiate games (65 starts), he averaged 9.2 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 23.4 minutes per game. As a senior in 2021-22, he elevated his production to 12.8 points and 4.7 rebounds per game and earned Pac-12 All-Tournament Team honors.
The Timberwolves’ decision to sign Bernard reflects a focus on developing versatile contributors who can provide scoring and playmaking depth. While he will continue to refine his game in the G League, his strong performances suggest he could earn meaningful NBA minutes if called upon.
With the regular season entering its critical stretch, Bernard’s addition gives Minnesota another developmental option with proven scoring ability and previous NBA exposure.
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