Every era of the NBA has had its guy—the one who defines the league, dominates the headlines, and becomes the global face of basketball. However, with LeBron James nearing the twilight of his legendary run, the league is at a crossroads. Who takes over next?

Minnesota Timberwolves’ rising star Anthony Edwards seemed like a prime candidate—explosive talent, charisma, and that undeniable it factor. When asked directly, Edwards responded surprisingly: “I don’t want it.” Yes, the high-flying young star straight-up rejected the idea of being the face of the NBA, saying he’s not interested in bearing that torch. His reasoning? He just wants to hoop. That’s where Dwyane Wade, a former face of the league himself, stepped in.

Dwyane Wade in a podcast clip that was shared on Instagram by @siriusxm, said, ”I feel like we’re in a whole different day. And so, I feel like what is expected from the face of the league has changed…..Being a good basketball player and having stats. Having statistics doesn’t make you the face of the league, that makes you a good basketball player.” Meaning that one needs to be loved holistically by the fans and not just through the stats and numbers they put up. He added, “We got a lot of stars in the game, the world has changed so much that what we know as a celebrity is just different now.” Wade acknowledged the different generations and their perception of stardom. Ending with, “So what does it mean to be the face of the league now,  I don’t think anybody knows,” expressing uncertainty over the looming question.

For Wade, the face of the league is about embracing leadership, being the league’s spokesperson, and carrying the NBA’s brand worldwide. He pointed out that not every star wants that pressure, and that’s okay. But for those who do, the expectations are sky-high.

Anthony Edwards’ Rejection: Why He Doesn’t Want the Crown

Anthony Edwards is that dude on the court. From electrifying plays, big-time buckets, and an infectious swagger that has made him one of the most exciting young stars in the NBA, he has it all. Many believed he was the natural heir to LeBron. The comparisons have substance to them. The 23-year-old has averaged 27.2 points per game this season. In addition, he has averaged 6 RPG and an impressive free throw percentage of 83.5%. 

But when it comes to the responsibility of being the face of the league, he’s making it clear, it’s not for him. He doesn’t want to deal with the media circus, the brand obligations, and everything else that comes with being the player every casual fan associates with the league. Ant is clearly passionate about the sport, too passionate at times. 

Instead, Edwards seems focused on the purity of the game, hooping at the highest level without distractions. While some players thrive on attention and embrace the spotlight, he prefers to let his game do the talking.

That being said, the league doesn’t necessarily wait for a player to choose the role. If Edwards continues to rise as a superstar and leads the Timberwolves deep into the playoffs, or even to a championship, the narrative might shift. Whether he likes it or not. Sometimes, players don’t get appointed as the face of the league; they earn it.

Anthony Edwards made it clear, he’s not interested in being the guy. And that’s fine. But as Dwyane Wade points out, the NBA needs a leader. A face to carry the league forward. Who do you think prepared to embrace this mantle from this crop of stars of the new generation?