Getting Shaquille O’Neal’s Approval on Michael Jordan Comparison, Why Anthony Edwards Might Be Most Important Player for Team USA?

A simple exhibition game became the breeding ground for a young warrior. Team USA was struggling to mighty Germany. There was a moment when basketball enthusiasts foresaw the giants falling once again – a repeat of 2004 of sorts. However, they didn’t account for the heroics that would take place at the hands of a 22-year-old Anthony Edwards. The star guard anchored the USA to a thrilling victory in the final exhibition game before the 2023 FIBA World Cup. His single-handed takeover drew comparisons to the immortalized icon Michael Jordan.

While Edwards is still far from achieving the behemoth heights of the six-time champion, Shaquille O’Neal still gave him the nod of approval to be the potential next young GOAT.

Shaq stamps on a new Michael Jordan

Team USA had to battle a 16-point deficit in the second half. A fairly young and inexperienced side, there was a burning question of who would be the man. In that instance, Ant-Man struck. Logging in a game-high 34 minutes, he went on a scoring tear in the clutch. He finished the game with 34 points which included the dagger to give the USA a 99-91 win in the contest against their formidable rivals.

“He’s unquestionably the guy,” said Steve Kerr who was awestruck by the brilliance of Edwards according to NBA.com

Some of his plays were pure excellence while others were superhuman. It reminded the devoted basketball fans of Michael Jordan. In particular, Edwards hit a double pump fadeaway that was uncanny to His Airness’ ability to stay stationary in the air. Moreover, the highlight reel consisted of more identical plays. Edwards’ freakish athleticism gives him access to some of the mind-boggling moves MJ was able to pull off.

It would be preposterous to make comparisons this early considering Ant-Man is only three years into the league. Yet that didn’t stop Shaquille O’Neal from giving his seal of approval to the resemblance. He reposted the video on his Instagram stories, essentially claiming Edwards to be the keystone to this Team USA who has gold ambitions for their FIBA World Cup campaign.

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But what will Edwards have to produce to match the great Chicago Bulls icon?

Can Ant-Man replicate MJ on the international stage?

Jordan’s impeccable legacy extends far beyond the clutches of the NBA. He was a global ambassador for basketball, and his international prowess was a spectacle. He was first part of the 1984 Olympics as a mere rookie. Facing off against the best basketball players in the world, Jordan stood out. Averaging 17 points per game, he led the nation to another gold medal.

Later, he suited up again in 1992 as the face of the iconic ‘Dream Team’. This was a group oozing talent like no other. Charles Barkley, Magic Johnson, MJ, Clyde Drexler, and John Stockton were some of the notable names on the team. In what was a lop-sided contest, Team USA drubbed every opposition with Jordan averaging nearly 13 points and 4 steals per game according to Basketball Reference. Additionally, MJ never lost a single game when donned in the USA colors.

Anthony Edwards began his international career in a similar trajectory. In the five exhibition games, the offensive juggernaut compiled 18.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, two steals, and a block every game. He helped Team USA enter the FIBA World Cup unscathed. He assumed the role of the ‘leader’ from his exemplary show against Germany.

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Now, the fans have one message clear. Team USA will flow through Ant Man who is gradually becoming a two-way showman. Despite being only 22, Edwards doesn’t quiver at the big moments. Rather he is dauntless in those times, willing to step up in the pivotal moments. It’s a trait Michael Jordan was revered for. And now, the old-school mentality to put it all on the line rests within Anthony Edwards.