MINNEAPOLIS — Flip Saunders had quite a challenge on his hands when he returned to Minnesota two years ago to take over the moribund Timberwolves.

Just as it appeared the franchise was starting to turn the corner, a new challenge has presented itself. And he plans to take this one on with as much determination and confidence as he has any other.

Saunders announced Tuesday that he is being treated for Hodgkins lymphoma, and his doctors consider it “very treatable and curable.”

Saunders was diagnosed with a cancer of the immune system two months ago and has been undergoing chemotherapy. He plans to remain the Timberwolves’ head coach and top executive while being treated.

“I am attacking this with the same passion I do everything in my life, knowing this is a serious issue,” he said in a statement issued by the team. “I also know that God has prepared me to fight this battle.”

The 60-year-old Saunders returned to the Timberwolves as team president in 2013. Last year, he replaced the retired Rick Adelman on the bench and the team finished 16-66.

Even while undergoing treatment, Saunders remained active with the team, overseeing draft workouts, selecting Karl-Anthony Towns at No. 1 overall and trading for Tyus Jones on draft night in June. He signed players including Euroleague MVP Nemanja Bjelica and veteran point guard Andre Miller to supplement a roster teeming with young talent.

He didn’t attend the Las Vegas Summer League, but has remained engaged and at the team’s new practice facility throughout the summer. Doctors have encouraged him to keep up with his daily business.

“Flip has kept me apprised of his cancer diagnosis and treatment,” owner Glen Taylor said. “He has my support as well as my thoughts and prayers for him and his family.”

As team president, head coach and a minority owner, Saunders has carved out a nearly unprecedented amount of power within the organization. His influence can be seen from the construction of the roster, the return of franchise icon Kevin Garnett and the drum line occasionally used during pregame introductions.

He will no doubt lean on his coaching staff — Sam Mitchell, Sidney Lowe, Ryan Saunders and David Adelman — as well as a front office team that includes general manager Milt Newton.