The X-Games skateboarding athletes have a makeshift Minneapolis skyline as a backdrop, but they likely would be just as comfortable using makeshift inclines and handrails sprinkled throughout downtown to prepare for Saturday's skateboard street final.
While working out a handful of rougher edges, Daisuke Ikeda lost his hat and his board during his X Games practice run. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)
When Torey Pudwill’s board went sideways during the Men’s Skateboard Street elimination round, it was trick, not an illusion. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)
![Aurelien Giraud practices before the Men's Skateboard Street elimination round at the X Games at U.S. Bank Stadium Friday, August 2, 2019. ] NICOLE NERI • nicole.neri@startribune.com](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/7GGUAOVPTKNJHC7XWUCW2M75RI.jpg?&w=1080)
![Daisuke Ikeda loses his hat and his board during the Men's Skateboard Street elimination round at the X Games at U.S. Bank Stadium Friday, August 2, 2019. ] NICOLE NERI • nicole.neri@startribune.com](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/I6XCQEGSRCTSHBC64NGPRUQQKY.jpg?&w=1080)
![Torey Pudwill competes during the Men's Skateboard Street elimination round at the X Games at U.S. Bank Stadium Friday, August 2, 2019. ] NICOLE NERI • nicole.neri@startribune.com](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/K7SB2PDNHTLJQ46QUKKRCHVOGQ.jpg?&w=1080)
![Minnesota Timberwolves President of Basketball Operations Tim Connelly speaks during a press conference to introduce the team's 2022 NBA draft selections Tuesday, June 28, 2022 at Target Center in Minneapolis. ]](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/5TJRTEW45B4MW7WV6N7UJSXBU4.jpg?&w=252&ar=3:2&fit=crop)