Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant Set the Bar Too High as Harsh Steve Kerr Brought Out a Different Side of Anthony Edwards: ?If We Had the no.1 Pick, We Wouldn?t?Take?You?

Anthony Edwards faced a key time in his early career before becoming a rising star in the NBA. It was during a workout session with Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr ahead of the 2020 NBA Draft. During that session, the 22-year-old rookie experienced something due to which he is the successful player we see today.

Coach Kerr’s blunt remarks had an indelible impression on the now All-Star guard. And due to listening and actually working on it even coach Kerr knew that Edwards was determined to a path of greatness.

Steve Kerr gives constructive criticism to Edwards

During an interview, Edwards reminisced about his altercation with Steve Kerr. He said during the warmup exercise, Kerr wasn’t impressed and told Edwards that he wasn’t working hard enough. Edwards was surprised since he thought he was giving his best. He reflected on the experience, adding, “I thought I was working hard… What exactly do you want me to do? “I’m sweating crazy.”

Later that evening, while eating dinner with Kerr and then-Warriors general manager Bob Myers, him the same message loud and clear. Kerr said, “You’ve gotta see Steph, KD, and Klay work out. You didn’t work hard enough. If we had the No. 1 pick, we wouldn’t take you.” The Timberwolves, on the other hand, took Edwards with the first overall choice, while the Warriors took James Wiseman with the second. On the other hand that altercation with Kerr completely changed Edward’s mindset. He left the restaurant knowing he had to boost his game and vowed to work harder.

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Edwards then said, “After that, I became a madman at the gym. They played a huge role in where I am today because they pitched that to me earlier.” Three years later, the narrative around Edwards has drastically changed. Edwards had the opportunity to play with Kerr and Team USA this summer, and Kerr had nothing but admiration for him.

Anthony Edwards’ trajectory in the NBA

Anthony Edwards made his presence felt on the floor during the 2022-23 NBA season with remarkable numbers that highlighted his rise in the league. The youthful sensation averaged 24.6 points per game, good for 16th in scoring in the league. His well-rounded game supplemented his scoring ability, as he averaged 5.8 rebounds and 4.4 assists per game. What’s more impressive is Edwards’ efficiency. He had a field goal percentage of 45.9%, demonstrating his ability to create an impact while capitalizing on his opportunities. These numbers emphasize Edwards’ scoring abilities as well as his skills as a facilitator and a presence on the boards.

Kerr called Edwards “the guy” and commended his self-assurance, stating, “He genuinely believes he’s the best player in the gym every single night.” And due to his last season performance, he was named to his first All-Star team. This All-Star selection is only the beginning of what Edwards aims to accomplish. This offseason, he inked a five-year contract extension with the Timberwolves worth up to $260 million, confirming his place as a franchise foundation.

Edwards attributes his success to Kerr and the Warriors. Kerr’s straightforward remarks became an iconic moment, reminding us that great talents rise above adversity and utilize criticism as a stepping stone to greatness.

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