Being mentioned in the same sentence as the GOAT Michael Jordan is already a noteworthy feat. But to be constantly compared to “Air Jordan?” That’s a whole other level of expectations and pressure. For sensational guard Anthony Edwards , this is precisely what he has been experiencing since he took his game to new heights last season.
After steadily improving in his first three seasons, the former Georgia Bulldog took his game to another level during the 2023-2024 season, averaging 25.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game. Ant also earned All-Star and All-NBA Team honors, solidifying his place amongst the league’s best.
However, former teammate and close friend Karl-Anthony Towns says that as flattering and honorable as it is to be constantly compared to Jordan, being the first Edwards is more crucial.
Blaze a trail of his own
KAT understands where the comparisons are coming from. More impressive than the scoring ability is how the 6-foot-4 guard does it: in spectacular fashion. From thunderous slam dunks to gravity-defying blocks to clutch shots with defenders draped all over him, Edwards has a knack for making highlight-reel plays.
Despite the similarities in their game, Towns stressed that Anthony is his own player and should not be limited and boxed in as the “next Jordan.” Karl believes that Ant has the potential to create his own legacy and leave a mark on the league in his own unique way.
“I think what we need to also understand is, I know he reminds people a lot of Jordan, but why not just let him be Ant? He could be the first Anthony Edwards. Which ain’t bad at all—ain’t bad at all,” KAT told NFL legend Shannon Sharpe on “Club Shay Shay.”
“He has the charisma, age is on his side, he has the athleticism, and he’s gotten better at shooting the ball. He’s gotten better at everything. I just think he could do it,” the newest New York Knick emphasized. “So, yeah, I think he could really do something special.”
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Ant is a vibe, on and off the court
When Shannon asked the 7-footer to describe what Anthony was like behind the scenes, the player smiled as if remembering when he and his former teammate shared laughs and deep talks.
“Off the court, like you said, he’s charismatic, funny—maybe the funniest player on our team, and we’ve got some funny guys on our team. He’s one of those guys you’re super appreciative and blessed to be in a locker room with,” Towns shared. “He just brings the morale up, and that’s rare for someone as young as he is, as talented as he is, and what we ask of him every single night, to be able to bring that kind of energy to the locker room.”
Together with Ant, KAT helped elevate the Timberwolves to the peak of the Western Conference, reaching the conference finals before losing to the Dallas Mavericks. Now, with Towns heading to Manhattan, where he’ll don the blue and orange of the Knicks, the two will be on different sides of the court. However, Karl is confident that even though he’s no longer with the Wolves, Ant will continue to bring his infectious energy and humor day in and out.
Related: "That definitely hurt" - Anthony Edwards reacts to the Karl-Anthony Towns trade
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