“Matt really showed up tonight,” said Timberwolves coach David Peralta, who admitted he was surprised when the human male showed up to tryouts. “These pups just keep surprising me.”

As the only player in the historically canine-dominated league with the ability to grip, dribble, or shoot the ball, Barlowe has made a name for himself, proving himself on the court in overwhelming wins against the Tiverton Warriors, Woonsocket Crusaders, and East Greenwich Terriers.

“There’s nothing in the rules that says a man can’t play basketball,” added Peralta, who has racked up close to 300 0-0 ties over his almost 15 years coaching the Terriers. “Hustle and heart. That’s what really matters.”

Barlowe leads his team in points, rebounds and blocks, while his teammates have dominated in the areas of being the cutest little boy and wanting a belly rub.