The unpredictability of the game of basketball makes it worth watching for the fans around the globe. The upset it causes even in the big states of the world crushes hopes and silences ego. Team USA star Anthony Edwards succumbed to one such moment as his team faced a recent setback.
What made it more interesting was that it came on the back of a few virtuous comments from the Minnesota Timberwolves youngster. The national team fans still sided with him, as they publicly backed the 22-year-old.
What did Anthony Edwards say?
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Before the start of the second round in the FIBA World Cup 2023, the superstar was asked about facing Montenegro and Lithuania. He showed immense faith as he replied, “I think we?re gonna win”.?He then added, “Our confidence is at an all-time high”, before declaring, We’re not really worried about those guys”.?
Anthony Edwards was previously asked about playing Lithuania and Montenegro in the second round:
"I think we’re gonna win. Our confidence is at an all-time high. We're not really worried about those guys."
USA just lost to Lithuania by 6. Yikes. pic.twitter.com/SacA8za3mK
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) September 3, 2023
The shooting guard was correct about one part as they defeated Montenegro 85-73. Their luck ran out in the following game as Lithuania produced an upset and beat Team USA by 6 points. The moment came as a shocker for the fans, as the favorites failed to stay unbeaten.
Edwards tried everything he could to turn it around for his team but eventually had to eat his own words. He dropped 35 points and even shattered records, but still; they fell short. His comments came full circle, but the supporters decided to rally behind him for his efforts.
How did the national team fans react?
The fans voice their support to stand by Anthony. One said, “It wasn’t his fault,”?to emphasize he tried his best to help his team win.
It wasn’t his fault https://t.co/E1elTsyamC
— Trevor (@Trev_Davidson) September 4, 2023
Another backed him for his words and mentality ahead of the clashes.
Did you want him to say he was worried and thought they would lose?
— coop (@LocalLegendCoop) September 3, 2023
The support for him gained momentum as the national team lovers joined in to back Ant.
Only person who actually wanted to win 🤷🏾♂️
— Kyrie Center (@kyriecenterig) September 3, 2023
The comments such as, “Media tryna make ant look c**ky” and “He?s just confident as he should be” took prevalence. The fans cooperated to hit back at people who were trying to mock the All-Star for displaying confidence.
What you want him to say? “Nah bruh they gone smack us”
— DUDA. (@dudasrevenge) September 3, 2023
The viewers loved what they saw from the youngster and heaped praises on his performance.
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Wasn’t Ant’s fault. Man lit it up
— Frank Michael Smith (@frankmikesmith) September 3, 2023
The USA fans remain hopeful of their chances to still win the gold medal in the tournament. They cheered for their team mentioning, “They can still win gold,“?followed by “Onto the quarter finals”.
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Overall, the national teams have much faith left in the national team players. After dismal displays in the last edition, the aim of bringing in the gold remains firm. Can Team USA come out victorious? Let us know in the comments below.