LeBron James and Stephen Curry have been the faces of the NBA for years, but with both superstars nearing the twilight of their careers, the league is looking for its next torchbearer. Anthony Edwards, one of the league’s brightest young stars, has been identified as a potential candidate to fill that role. However, the Minnesota Timberwolves’ leader has made it clear he’s not sold on the idea.
During the All-Star Weekend, Edwards admitted he has what it takes to become the face of the league but prefers not to assume the responsibility. In a recent episode of Year Five, Edwards elaborated, explaining that the pressure and obligations that come with the role don’t align with his priorities.
“Man, there’s a lot of s— that comes with that face of the league, all that,” Edwards said. “You know what I’m saying? I try, but I just—my people know—I just want to play ball, and go to the crib, and play my game. I’m not really into all the other stuff, but they be wanting me to get into it“.
It’s undeniable that Edwards has the talent to easily become the next face of the league. With his explosive athleticism, scoring ability, and unwavering confidence, many have compared him to a young Michael Jordan in terms of playing style. While his physical attributes and on-court skills are not in question, being the NBA’s icon also demands a significant level of responsibility off the court.
Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts during the second half of the game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center. (Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
Previously, when asked if he considered himself the face of the NBA, the Timberwolves star emphatically said no and pointed to San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama as a more fitting candidate for the role.
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LeBron James reflects on being the face of the NBA
Los Angeles Lakers legend LeBron James has long been regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history and has carried the mantle of the league’s face since his rookie days. Following the Lakers’ win 111-102 over the Timberwolves, James weighed in on the topic.
“Why do you wanna be the face of the league when all the people that cover our game and talk about our game on a day-to-day basis (expletive) on everybody?” LeBron said, via Spectrum SportsNet. “To have that responsibility is weird. It’s weird energy”.
“The King” reflected on how he came to embrace the role. “Obviously, I didn’t ask for it,” he said. “But I knew there was a responsibility on me—not only to my family, my friends, and my community but to anyone who was going to follow my journey throughout my career. Not just in Ohio when I started there, but all over America, and across the world as I traveled globally”.
LeBron also spoke about how he has managed the immense pressure and responsibilities over the years. “I’ve always taken that seriously and understood from the beginning what being a professional was all about and what being a role model meant,” he explained. “So I’ve always tried to hold that with the utmost respect and honor”.
