The Minnesota Timberwolves may have just pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the NBA playoffs, ousting the reigning champions, the Denver Nuggets. But the real showstopper was happening courtside. As the final buzzer sounded in Game 7, all eyes were not just on the scoreboard but also on the peculiar handshake exchanged between the Timberwolves’ rising star Anthony Edwards and the team’s part-owner, none other than baseball legend Alex Rodriguez.

A-Rod—a man not known for understated celebrations—was seen visibly elated, his face a mask of pure joy and adrenaline. As he made a beeline for Ant—locking eyes with each other in a moment of shared triumph—what followed was a handshake so intricate, so filled with coded moves, it would make a Freemason blush! Fist bump, wrist bump, shoulder lean, head nod—it was a secret language spoken only by those who’d tasted victory together. But what was the message behind this cryptic ritual?

Was it a nod to Anthony Edwards’ stellar performance, carrying the team on his young shoulders? A subtle reminder of A-Rod’s vested interest in the team’s success—with his ownership stake hanging in the balance? Or perhaps just a spontaneous outburst of bro-tastic energy? Whatever the meaning, it sent social media into a frenzy, with fans dissecting each move like in that one Abraham Zapruder film.

Edwards, ever the cool champion, played it coy when asked about the handshake post-game. A simple “that’s between me and A-Rod” was all he might have offered, a sly grin playing on his lips. Though nothing has been reported of him opening up about the interaction, the bond between the two was undeniable indeed—sort of a symbolic passing of the torch from one sporting legend to the next.

This wasn’t just any handshake; this was a statement. This was a clear declaration that the Timberwolves are here to stay, that Edwards is the future, and that A-Rod, despite the ongoing ownership drama, is all in. It was a moment that transcended sport—a glimpse into the complex relationships that shape the world of professional athletics. Now, the handshake may have stolen the headlines—but let’s not forget the man who made it all possible.

Ant-Man’s ascent Anthony Edwards’ rise to stardom

Edwards, the 21-year-old phenom, put on a clinic throughout the series, proving that he’s more than just a high-flying dunker. While he may have had a quiet first half in Game 7—scoring just four points—he roared back to life in the second half, finishing with 16 points and playing lockdown defense on Jamal Murray.

Edwards himself acknowledged his multifaceted game, stating, “There’s more ways to win the basketball game when you’re just not an offensive player. I’m not one-dimensional. I’m not just a guy who can score. I’m a guy who – whoever their best guard is, I can go lock him down.”

This wasn’t just talk. Anthony Edwards’ defensive prowess was a key factor in stifling the Nuggets’ offensive juggernaut, led by the three-time MVP Nikola Jokic. The Timberwolves’ win wasn’t just an upset; it was a tactical masterclass, with Edwards playing a pivotal role.

But Edwards isn’t without his flaws. His inconsistency, especially on the offensive end, is a cause for concern. However, his potential is undeniable, and with the right guidance and development, he could become a perennial All-Star.

The Timberwolves’ win over the Nuggets was a statement of intent, a declaration that they are a force to be reckoned with. And at the heart of this resurgence is Anthony Edwards, the young star who is quickly becoming the face of the franchise. With his combination of athleticism, skill, and charisma, Edwards is poised to lead the Timberwolves to new heights.