The ongoing debate over whether or not NBA All-Stars should play for Team USA has been settled by Anthony Edwards’s strong stance. When questioned why he was wearing the national team jersey, his response was honest, which was a nice change of pace.
Edwards stated that he decided to join Team USA because he wanted to follow in the footsteps of legendary athletes like Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, and Vince Carter. Edwards used these basketball greats to highlight the significance of being included in the team of famous athletes who have played important roles in the history of the national team.
Anthony Edwards talks about Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan’s inspiring performances
Anthony Edwards gave an emphatic “no” to the question of whether or not NBA all-stars should play for Team USA. Edwards gave a straightforward answer when asked why he decided to play for the national team.
Anthony Edwards on playing for Team USA:
“I just wanted to play in it because Kobe played in it, Michael Jordan played in it, Vince Carter when he jumped over buddy….Or the Kobe one when Kobe was talking Spanish to Luis Scola.”
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“I just wanted to play in it because Kobe (Bryant) played in it,” Anthony explained. “Because Michael Jordan played in it. Vince Carter, when he jumped over buddy, he almost punched Kevin Garnett in the face after he jumped over him. Ordered Kobe 1s when Kobe was talking Spanish to Luis Scola. And Bron was like, ‘Chill Kob.’ Those are the best players, so you gotta do what they do.”
Since the legendary 1992 Dream Team, the United States Olympic team has typically included the league’s best players. After a break with tradition, the 2004 Redeem Team emerged to reclaim the basketball crown. Edwards is part of a roster that may be underappreciated, but his drive to match the greats is indicative of the team’s tenacity. His comments will undoubtedly get basketball fans fired up and excited to see how Team USA does at the FIBA World Cup.
How important is Anthony Edwards for Team USA?
The United States men’s national basketball team faced a powerful German group led by Dennis Schröder and the Wagner brothers in their final tune-up game before the upcoming FIBA World Cup in Abu Dhabi. After falling down by as many as 14 points in the third quarter, the American team desperately needed Edwards’ effort to rediscover some offensive and defensive consistency.
Edwards’ 34 points, including a game-winning dunk and a pair of clutch threes, were the most of any player and one of just three to reach double figures. As the squad struggled to score, his ability to create opportunities for himself was crucial. Edwards’ comfort in the role of leader shone through, as did his leadership and attacking versatility.
His development as a leader is important for more than just franchise USA; it might have a major effect on the Minnesota Timberwolves, his NBA franchise. Edwards’ time spent with Team USA could help him develop into a more complete player and leader as he and his current team work to integrate their outstanding lineups.
