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Ahead of Paris Olympics Selection, Anthony Edwards Credits Time With Team USA in FIBA WC for Evolution

Published 01/19/2024, 12:58 AM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

After the Timberwolves‘ 118-103 win over the Grizzlies tonight, Anthony Edwards, who is popular for his self-confidence, talks about how the FIBA experience helped change his game. And himself. A ball-dominant player, Edwards loves to make a name for himself, especially when the opponents are top names.

But playing on international soil to make your country proud, “playing in isolation” is not the way to go. And that’s what he learned from his 2023 FIBA run. He credits his “time” with Team USA for the evolution of his game.

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Even though Team USA ultimately lost to Germany, Edwards left a lasting impression on everyone. With Steve Kerr heading the team and Anthony dominating on the court, there was little doubt as to him taking the reins. And being a leader would mean increased responsibilities and spur-of-the-moment decisions. Both of which the ANT excelled at.

This is also something that translated well when he was back with his team.

Anthony Edwards and his T-Wolves

Edwards has been the saving grace for the Minnesota Timberwolves. The moment he stepped foot on the court, the team was his. The Ant-Man showed maturity and responsibility beyond his then-19-year-old self. Then again, he had veteran players on the team itself to guide him throughout.

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22 years old now, Edwards is currently averaging 26.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game this season. His high basketball IQ, ability to create shots for himself, and openings for his teammates have been crucial to the team. Not to mention, pure, raw energy and athleticism all packed into a 6’4 frame seamlessly flowed into a group that was borderline sluggish.

Which was why the Wolves’ President of Basketball Operations, Tim Connelly, had said, “Pretty much every decision we’re going to make moving forward is going to be with Ant paramount.” The franchise genuinely believes in Anthony Edwards’ ability to take the organization much farther than it ever had gone.

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Edwards believes it himself. And as each season goes on, the Atlanta native grows with it. Applying everything he has learned to better his skills and expand them, Anthony Edwards’ time in the Minnesota Timberwolves will be their golden era.

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Written by:

Geisha Pulimoottil Don

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Edited by:

Sameen Nawathe