Anthony Edwards Declines NBA 'Face of the League' Role

Timberwolves star prefers to focus on playing, not fame

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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As the NBA looks for its next generational star, Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards has made it clear he has no interest in becoming the 'face of the league.' Edwards, a four-time All-Star, says he'd rather just 'show up and hoop' without the pressures and responsibilities that come with being the league's top ambassador.

Why it matters

The 'face of the NBA' title is a coveted but ambiguous designation, lacking any formal recognition or incentives. Edwards' stance highlights how some players prefer to focus on their on-court performance rather than embrace the fame and obligations of being the league's top representative.

The details

During All-Star Weekend, Edwards was asked if he sees himself as the future face of the NBA, to which he replied, 'No, not really... that's what they got Wemby for,' referring to rising star Victor Wembanyama. Edwards further clarified, 'I'm capable of being that guy, but I don't want to be that guy. Put it like that. I want to be the guy to just show up and hoop and just kill dudes and go home.'

  • Anthony Edwards made these comments during the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend.

The players

Anthony Edwards

A four-time NBA All-Star and the leading scorer for the Minnesota Timberwolves, who has shown little desire to become the 'face of the league.'

Victor Wembanyama

A rising NBA star who Edwards believes should take on the 'face of the league' role instead of himself.

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What they’re saying

“Man, them folks got Wembanyama. They got Wembanyama. They'll be alright.”

— Anthony Edwards, NBA Player (theconwaybulletin.com)

“No, not really... that's what they got Wemby for.”

— Anthony Edwards, NBA Player (theconwaybulletin.com)

“I'm capable of being that guy, but I don't want to be that guy. Put it like that. I want to be the guy to just show up and hoop and just kill dudes and go home.”

— Anthony Edwards, NBA Player (NBA TV)

What’s next

As veterans like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant approach retirement, the NBA will continue to search for its next generational star to take over the league's marketing and promotional efforts. However, Anthony Edwards has made it clear he has no interest in embracing that role, preferring to let others like Victor Wembanyama take the spotlight.

The takeaway

Anthony Edwards' stance on the 'face of the NBA' title highlights how some players prioritize on-court performance over the fame and obligations that come with being the league's top ambassador. His focus on simply 'showing up and hooping' without the pressures of the spotlight reflects a growing trend among NBA stars who want to let their play do the talking.