At the Minnesota Timberwolves game at Target Center on Nov. 4, 612 Crew stepped onto the court during the first time-out, bursting with rhythmic energy. With synchronous movements, bent knees and sharp arm gestures, the hip-hop dance group revved up the crowd with their explosive spirit.
612 Crew is one of several professional dance groups that add to the home game buzz for the Wolves. There are also the Timberwolves Dancers, who perform most frequently, Senior Dancers, Pups, and 1st Avenue Breakers. In addition, groups such as the drumline team PACKcussion, and a trampoline dunk team called the Slam Squad are on the entertainment roster.
“When we’re on that stage, we’ve got to put forth strength so that we can entertain and show out for the Minnesota dance community as a whole,” said Herb Johnson III, who choreographs dances for 612 Crew.

Johnson, known internationally for his staccato movements of krump (a hip-hop style that features stomps and arm swings), began dancing for the Timberwolves and Lynx about 14 years ago. When he first started, there was one dance crew that did both breaking, the original form of hip-hop, and other forms of hip-hop that included more standing moves. A few years later, the Timberwolves created two different crews that focused on the two styles. Johnson was tapped to choreograph for the latter group.
“It’s a huge stepping stool for people who want to take what they do to another level because you’re put into the position where you have to consistently perform,” Johnson said.
He noted that while the Twin Cities offers ample opportunity to teach hip-hop dance, there are fewer performance opportunities available. Johnson has shared his choreography at events like “Rooted: A Hip Hop Choreographer’s Evening” and performances at the now-closed Cowles Center. But performing at the Wolves games has been a more consistent gig. Last year, the troupe even joined the Wolves on their trip to Abu Dhabi for the NBA Global Games.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the different dance groups would sometimes perform together during the Wolves’ halftime shows. Since then, all but the main group, the Timberwolves Dancers, mostly perform during one-minute time-outs during the game.
Having just about a minute on the court means there’s high pressure to make an impression, said Jake Riley, a coach and choreographer for the 1st Avenue Breakers.