Anthony Edwards has cemented himself as one of the NBA‘s best players over the past few seasons. At only 23, he holds a special place among the great shooting guards of today’s generation due to his exceptional performances.
Based on his play for the Minnesota Timberwolves, Edwards is a certified superstar. Unfortunately, the league is no longer just about basketball, as some people have anointed Edwards as the next “Face of the League.”
Even if he is a younger player, Edwards is in a special tier alongside some of the league’s best players. He is on the same level as names like Nikola Jokic and Giannis Antetokounmpo, which proves Edwards is a megastar.
Some media members have anointed Edwards as the NBA’s next face when LeBron James or Stephen Curry retires, which is huge pressure for any player. Edwards has denied the tag because he only wants to play basketball.
“Man, there’s a lot of s*** that comes with that… I try, but… my people know—I just want to play ball, go to the crib, and play my game.”
— Anthony Edwards on the face of the NBA
When DeMarcus Cousins addressed the debate, he discussed the necessary qualities of a superstar. It is important to be a good player on the court but also have an off-court presence.
Edwards has the charisma to make himself noticeable anywhere. His exciting play style and personality have made him a fun player to follow across all demographics.
He is not as proven as players like LeBron, Curry, or Kevin Durant, but he is one of the more popular stars. For Cousins, that is a combination of Edwards’ talent and magnetism.
“It’s the on-court performance, that’s important. Are you marketable? Can the league push you? Can the league sell you? Do the people like you? The global impact as well. You can’t be a superstar if you’re only known in the States,” Cousins said on Run It Back. “The league is bigger than that, it’s a global brand. Once you have that global impact, you get that superstar status… As great as Jokic is, you can’t sell him… You have guys like Anthony Edwards when everything he says is gold.”
Edwards Is Focused On Playing Basketball
Some people are focused on making Edwards the face of the league. He fits the bill, but that should come naturally. Edwards is a mega talent, who earned all of his accolades, but he should not be given that immense pressure at only 23.
He will probably carry the torch in the future alongside many other superstar-level players. The league has produced tremendous talents like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Victor Wembanyama, Tyrese Haliburton, and many more.
Edwards will be part of that special group, but he will remain interested in playing basketball rather than doing off-court activities.
In the meantime, the Timberwolves and their fans are glad Edwards keeps his focus on basketball because he is bringing them glory.
