Minnesota sports fans have a long history of near misses and heartbreak. But Alex Rodriguez, part-owner of the Minnesota Timberwolves, has encouraged people to look at the electrifying reality unfolding before their eyes: the emergence of a generational talent in Anthony Edwards.
In a recent interview, Rodriguez couldn’t contain his enthusiasm for the 22-year-old phenom. The host asked A-Rod about what totally shifted his idea of what the ceiling is for the team, speaking about “Ant”. Edwards, defying expectations with his explosive play, has pushed Rodriguez to re-evaluate the team’s timeline for greatness.
Alex Rodriguez praises Anthony Edwards with a Michael Jordan comparison
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“We’re so lucky to have a guy like Anthony Edwards right here“ Rodriguez explains. He further goes on to indicate the greatness in store yet to be displayed considering that the 22-year-old is yet to hit his prime. On one hand, he knows that “this kid” focuses on learning and applying what he learned instead of just learning. And this is the marquee difference between good and great players. Traditionally, peak performance in basketball is often seen as arriving in a player’s mid-to-late twenties. However, Edwards seems to be rewriting the script.
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Rodriguez goes on to compare Edwards’ rapid ascent to that of an NBA legend. He said, “[Michael] Jordan stepped into the NBA when he was 21 years old and this kid is 22 and as good as Anthony”. Adding more perspective on ‘Ant’s performance, A-Rod shared that despite his supremacy in the game, “people undervalue him in two ways”
There’s no doubt that Edwards’ brilliance extends beyond raw athleticism. Rodriguez, a savvy baseball legend himself, recognizes a rare quality in Edwards: his ability to learn and adapt at lightning speed. “I think people undervalue him in two ways,” Rodriguez says. He then breaks down Edwards’ unique skillset: “Number one, they don’t realize that he’s the fastest, strongest, most competitive, highest jumper… he’s got all of that in spades.” However, it is his composure that sets him apart.
Comparisons with other stars of the team
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A-Rod draws an amazing comparison to Justin Jefferson from football. He goes on to say how he handles media “Not a 22-year-old that’s like a 52-year-old wisdom to tap him under the table and say I got this and he handles it in such a beautiful way”. This makes it clear that Edwards’ impact goes beyond the stat sheet.
Rodriguez also shares a comparison between Edwards and veteran Karl-Anthony Towns highlighting their blossoming relationship. There’s leadership and camaraderie. This newfound leadership, coupled with his dazzling skills, paints a picture of a future superstar emerging right before our eyes.