Anthony Edwards has the potential to be an outstanding NBA player without the pressure of being the league’s face. The 23-year-old transitioned from All-Star to superstar last season as he guided the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Western Conference Finals, spurring speculation about him being the next face of the NBA, especially with the impending transition from LeBron James.
During All-Star Weekend, however, Edwards expressed his reluctance to accept that role. In a tweet, he stated, “Anthony Edwards doesn’t consider himself the ‘face of the NBA,’ because ‘that’s what they’ve got Wemby for.’” When asked by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin if he saw himself as a candidate for the title, he replied, “Not really. That’s what they got Wemby for.”
Anthony Edwards doesn’t consider himself the “face of the NBA,” because “that’s what they’ve got Wemby for.” pic.twitter.com/9nPzTmaGyr
— SpursRΞPORTΞR (@SpursReporter) February 15, 2025
Later, although he clarified his hesitation, he reiterated his disinterest in becoming the league’s face, stating, “I’m capable of being that guy. But I don’t want to be that guy, put it like that. I want to be the guy to just show up and hoop and just kill dudes and go home.”
Anthony Edwards on being the face of the NBA someday:
“Well, I’m capable of being that guy. But I don’t want to be that guy, put it like that. I want to be the guy to just show up and hoop and just kill dudes and go home.” pic.twitter.com/i5Hly1SMzG
— Timberwolves Clips (@WolvesClips) February 15, 2025
Edwards has already proven his ability to lead a team in the playoffs and is known for his electrifying dunks. While it would have been beneficial for the NBA to emerge from a disastrous All-Star Weekend with a clear figure to market as the league’s face, Edwards seems determined to pass on that opportunity.
The NBA should be feeling the pressure to identify a successor to legends like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron, particularly with new TV deals being marketed. However, despite the allure of consistently topping rankings to claim the title of the league’s face, Edwards seems unperturbed by the prospect. If he were to say, “Yes! I’m the face of the NBA!” it would invite unwarranted expectations for someone still so young.
Edwards deserves credit for his honesty. There’s nothing wrong with showcasing talent and wanting to go home afterwards. It’s equally valid to let someone naturally assume the mantle of the NBA’s face. Perhaps in five years, Victor Wembanyama will hold that title as many expect, or maybe we will view Edwards as the face of the NBA without him ever needing to declare it himself.
