The Minnesota Timberwolves joined the NBA as an expansion team in 1989. Since then, they’ve had their ups and downs, but have still managed to produce some highly sought-after basketball cards. For collectors interested in Wolves memorabilia, the following stand out as the most expensive and valuable T-Wolves cards to chase after.

1. Kevin Garnett 1997-98 Topps Chrome Refractor Rookie Card

Hands down, this mint KG rookie card is the holy grail for T-Wolves collectors. Garnett was selected by Minnesota with the fifth overall pick in the 1995 NBA draft, and quickly emerged as one of the most dominant power forwards in the league.

This particular Topps Chrome Refractor is like finding a golden ticket. The shiny, Chrome-plated design made it an instant hit when it first came out. Of all Garnett's early cards, his Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems parallel usually sells for the most on the secondary market. But it’s also insanely rare and tough to find.

The more attainable Refractor is arguably KG’s most iconic rookie. GEM-MT 10 copies have sold for north of $2,000-$3,000. For T-Wolves diehards, it's the ultimate centerpiece card.

2. Kevin Garnett 1995-96 Topps Finest Refractor Rookie Card

Coming in at #2 is another flashy Garnett rookie card. His 1995-96 Topps Finest issue again shows off a Refractor technology design. This time Topps encased the base cards in Jewelry-like plastic, magnifying their brilliance.

These Finest refractors arguably have the most beautiful basketball card designs of the 90s. This gem KG rookie resells for around $1,000 or more in top condition. While not as scarce as the 1997-98 Chrome, it’s much tougher to find flawless copies. Centering issues often plague Finest Refractors.

For those looking to complete an early KG rainbow, this dazzling Finest rookie is a must-have. It also looks amazing when grading companies slab it in their special holders. This show-stopper headlines any T-Wolves card collection.

3. Kevin Garnett 1996-97 Topps Chrome Refractor

Though not his cardboard debut, 1996-97 was still an early Garnett card. This post-rookie Refractor came out during KG's second NBA season but still draws big money from collectors.

The 1996-97 set expanded further on Topps' popular Chrome concept. This crisp Garnett Refractor dazzles thanks to its dynamic reflective coating. BGS and PSA 10 copies have sold for upwards of $500-$750 in today's market.

Beyond the stellar eye appeal, Garnett was already evolving into a stat machine during his sophomore campaign. He averaged over 17 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists that season, hinting at his eventual superstardom.

This shining KG Refractor is a cornerstone card for 90s basketball collectors. It looks spectacular in a graded slab and usually costs less than his two main rookie Refractors.

4. Stephon Marbury 1996-97 Topps Chrome Refractor Rookie Card

Before Garnett arrived, Stephon Marbury was viewed as Minnesota's savior. Drafted 4th overall in 1996, Marbury earned All-Rookie honors by averaging over 15 points and 7 assists.

His 1996-97 Topps Chrome rookie card is by far Marbury's most valuable. It shares the same dazzling Refractor technology as KG's 2nd year Chrome card. This iconic Steph rookie brings around $300 or more in PSA 10 condition.

Marbury never achieved MVP heights in Minnesota before getting traded to New Jersey in 1999. But during the late 90s, "Starbury" and KG gave fans an electrifying scoring duo. Marbury's Refractor rookie commemorates his early promise during those first seasons up north.

5. Tom Gugliotta 1992-93 Topps Gold Rookie Card

Tom "Googs" Gugliotta logged six solid seasons with Minnesota in the 1990s. An original member of the expansion era T-Wolves, Googs averaged over 20 points per game during the franchise’s inaugural seasons. He even made the All-Star team in 1997.

Googs’ 1992-93 Topps Gold rookie card recognizes his status as one of Minnesota’s original stars. The shiny Gold foil design was new that year and lent an air of class. Today, high-grade Googs rookies sell for around $200 and up.

While Kevin Garnett and Stephon Marbury cards understandably fetch higher prices, you can't tell the early T-Wolves story without Googs. This Gold rookie commemorates the best years of his career before injuries derailed his promise.

Conclusion

The Timberwolves may still be chasing that elusive first NBA championship. However, collectors can already find some mesmerizing basketball cards in Twolves history.

Early Kevin Garnett refractors continue to headline any Minnesota collection. His Topps Finest and Chrome rookies from the mid-90s are about as good as it gets. Stephon Marbury's 1996-97 Chrome rookie also remains a fan favorite.

Finally, Tom Gugliotta's shiny Gold rookie recognizes him as one of the OG Timberwolves franchise players. For card collectors looking to chase T-Wolves history, these five choices are a great place to start.