The in-house audio and video crew for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Minnesota Lynx at the Target Center is taking steps toward unionization under the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 745. The team, composed of approximately 50 technical professionals, filed for union recognition with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) after requesting voluntary recognition from management went unanswered. If successful, the Target Center crew would follow in the footsteps of Minnesota United’s in-house crew, who unionized in 2022.
Why the Crew is Unionizing
Crewmembers are motivated by a need for reliable wage increases that keep pace with inflation, citing a long history of stagnant wages and infrequent raises. Since the Timberwolves’ founding in 1989, the Target Center crew has seen only three wage increases.
Charlie Cushing, Business Representative for IATSE Local 745, said:
“With a union, you have a seat at the table, a voice, and an enforceable contract — you’re not just beholden to management’s whim.”
In addition to wage stability, workers are seeking guaranteed minimum call hours and health and retirement benefits. Many crew members suspect that previous wage increases in 2017 were strategically timed to prevent unionization.
Overcoming Past Challenges
The Timberwolves’ in-house crew has attempted to unionize in the past but faced significant opposition. During a 2016 effort, Timberwolves management argued that the crew were independent contractors rather than employees, a designation that would prevent them from unionizing under the National Labor Relations Act. However, after a 2022 NLRB ruling, workers were reclassified as employees of Minnesota Timberwolves Basketball, strengthening their right to organize.
Support From IATSE and Inspiration from Minnesota United
Matthew D. Loeb, International President of IATSE, expressed full support from the 170,000-member Alliance, recognizing the essential role the crew plays in creating a memorable fan experience.
“This crew deserves the same industry-standard benefits that their union colleagues receive across various sports leagues, and we’ll fight to ensure they get them,” Loeb said.
The Target Center crew also finds motivation from the successful unionization of the Minnesota United’s in-house crew.
“Our crew is inspired by the success of the union at MN United, and they want that at Target Center too,” says crewmember Josiah Wollan.
The Timberwolves and Lynx in-house crew’s unionization effort reflects a growing trend in the sports industry, with professionals seeking fair wages, job security, and benefits. As they await the outcome of their NLRB petition, the crew is hopeful that their work will soon be recognized with the same respect and protections afforded to other unionized sports crews across the nation.
