"The MVP is gonna be a Nike player" - Gilbert Arenas says Nike is the reason why Anthony Edwards won't be the 'Go-To' guy for Team USA

Despite being the youngest player on Team USA, Anthony Edwards has played incredibly well in the first three exhibition games for his country, averaging 14.3 points. The Minnesota Timberwolves guard has helped his team set the momentum on both ends of the floor; there is a growing perception that he may well be made the team's primary offensive option.

However, Gilbert Arenas contends that this scenario is unlikely to materialize. The 42-year-old argued that Ant-Man's affiliation with Adidas, rather than Nike or Jordan brand, will preclude him from receiving the prominent role that his performance might warrant.

Arenas says no affiliation with Nike will hurt Ant-Man

During a live stream on his show 'No Chill Gil,' the three-time All-Star openly emphasized that players like Bam Adebayo, Tyrese Haliburton, Jrue Holiday, and Derrick White are unlikely to play pivotal roles in Team USA's quest for gold at the Paris Olympics.

While Agent Zero asserted that Edwards' performance would be vital in determining Team USA's dominance level in the tournament, he boldly argued that the two-time All-Star, one of three players alongside Stephen Curry (Under Armour) and Joel Embiid (Skechers) who do not have affiliation with Nike, will never be allowed to be the team's primary option.

"I know everybody thinks Ant-Man is gonna be the starter (but) the go-to guy... I can tell you this right now, that ain't gonna happen," Arenas said . "This is a Nike event, and it has always been a Nike event. And other companies have to beg for their players to be on. So, the MVP is gonna be a Nike player or a Jordan Brand player. It's not gonna be an Adidas guy."

Put simply, Arenas pointed out that Nike's influence extends beyond merely sponsoring apparel. They also determine which players prominently feature for Team USA at international events.

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Does Team USA give too much power to Nike?

Interestingly, Arenas isn't the only one with this theory. When Kawhi Leonard was out, everyone thought reigning Finals MVP Jaylen Brown would step in. But when Derrick White got the nod instead, JB was sure Nike was behind it.

While the idea that a sports brand might hold such a strong power on a national team could be conspirational, seeing active and former players be so vocal about Nike's superiority is somewhat concerning.

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