Wolves Media Profile: Zach Bennett

Posted By: Dan Slaubaugh

The Minnesota Timberwolves community is extremely fortunate to have a large collection of dedicated, knowledgeable Wolves writers who cover the team year in and year out. Here at OTP, we are giving fans an opportunity to find out more about these talented individuals. Our twelfth profile feature is Zach Bennett from Cold Omaha, who does an excellent job covering both of Minnesota's professional basketball teams.

Name: Zach Bennett
Affiliation: Cold Omaha
Web Address: www.coldomaha.com
​Twitter: @ZacharyBD

​Zach! How are you? I appreciate the time!

Hello, Daniel. I am content, which is about as good as it gets for me. Thanks for reaching out to me about this -- seeing my name included on a list of people I admire and respect makes me feel warm. I’m happy to help!

How long have you been covering the Wolves for Cold Omaha?

This will be my second season covering the Timberwolves for Cold Omaha. It goes without saying, I’m excited for the start of training camp. 

What sparked your interest in writing and how did you get affiliated with Cold Omaha?

I enjoy reading, which more-or-less explains why I started writing. If others can document what they think, why shouldn’t I? The thing is that, for me, writing probably is one of the more difficult aspects of what goes into being a media member. Throughout time, it feels as though I’ve improved in this regard. But mainly, I came here for the sports. That’s what I’ve always been passionate about. 

And now I’m here. 

As for my relationship with Cold Omaha, it begins and ends with Tom Schreier, who I had contacted out of the blue one day, a year or two ago, in search of a paid contributing position. Shortly thereafter, I began producing radio and written content for Cold Omaha. I’ve been there ever since. 

What will viewers find by reading your content?

My content is unpredictable, at best. Aside from game previews/recaps, I’m always trying to put forth something different, something people haven’t seen before. I do my best to incorporate a combination of videos/gifs, statistics, as well as quotes from firsthand sources to illustrate what is it I’m trying to say, or the point I aim to get across. My main goal is to have those who read my work become at least slightly more informed about whatever topic I decide to tackle on that particular day. 

What keeps you driven and motivated to cover the team with excellence?

My frienemies, heh heh. There are so many people who do what we do, who do a remarkable job at it, that my competitiveness can hardly keep up. My inspiration derives from the stuff that is written by many of those you have decided to profile. I just do my best to learn and improve on a daily basis. 

Do you have any interest in possibly moving up in the sports media world to cover the team at a bigger platform?

I know this is cliche, but, I’m always looking and listening for opportunities that might be out there. Whether the gig has me covering the Wolves, a different NBA team, or a different sport entirely, I’m down to expand my horizons. 

The Wolves are one of the NBA’s best young squads. Why should fans be sure to follow the team next year?

Because that’s...what fans do? I know that’s a lame answer. How about this: Vegas pegs Karl-Anthony Towns as a 50-to-1 shot at capturing MVP honors. The Timberwolves haven’t had a serious MVP candidate since Garnett’s departure. So, I guess my point is that fans should follow the team if only because Towns is really, really good. 

Do you have a favorite Wolves memory in the time you’ve been covering them?

My trip to Las Vegas, where I spent a little more than a week covering the 2014 Summer League. I had a ton of fun simply soaking in the buzz throughout Thomas and Mack Arena and Cox Pavilion. Sure, in the grand scheme of things, LVSL is a meaningless exhibition tournament, but the people enjoy it. Also, it was nice to finally rub elbows with the lot of people from around the country who cover teams around the league, and the league itself.

What storyline are you most excited to watch unfold for the 2016/17 season?

I suppose all eyes will be on the Golden State Warriors, which makes sense. Aside from that, I’m anxious to see if Russell Westbrook will redefine Hero Ball as we now know it. With how well that dude has played without Durant in short stints, could Westbrook even elevate his game beyond what we already expect to see from him? I can’t wait to find out. 

Which are some of your favorite NBA and Wolves related writers you follow?

This is a slippery slope, for sure. There are just so many good people out there. On the national level, Dane Carbaugh has really carved a niche for himself with his video breakdowns. ESPN’s Kevin Arnovitz, whether he speaks on a podcast or publishes written work, is someone I try to keep up with. As far as Wolves people are concerned, nobody is as well-connected as Jon Krawczynski. Britt Robson, Andy Grimsrud, William Bohl, Tim Faklis, the list goes on and on and on. In fact, you’ve profiled -- or will profile -- basically everyone I want to include!

Rapid Fire (Flame Emojis)

Favorite sports movie? Ahh crap, do documentaries count? Because Unguarded (30 for 30 profile of Chris Herren) would probably be my answer.

If we exclude documentaries, then I’m going with Remember The Titans.

Favorite food? Pizza (No pineapple)

Favorite weather/season? Summer

Favorite TV show? Game Of Thrones, becauses I read the books. But since Season 6 ended, HBO’s The Night Of has totally captivated my interest.

Hidden talent? I can take your phone apart and put it back together. I keep the tools to do so in my backpack.

'95-'96 Bulls or '15-'16 Warriors? Both of them were great teams that had great seasons. I’m not sure we’ll ever see them play against one another. So, I’m staying away from this one

Favorite NBA player of all-time? Steve Nash

Space Jam or Like Mike? Space Jam. 

When do the Wolves finally end NBA's longest playoff drought? If not this season, next year.