“It’s bulls–t,” Anthony Edwards firmly stated, dismissing any criticism aimed at his “big brother,” Kevin Durant.
As Kevin Durant stood by his locker, he took a moment to reflect on the players who inspire him.
While LeBron James and Stephen Curry have both played pivotal roles in Durant’s career, the Phoenix Suns star chose to highlight a different player.
“I’d say Ant,” Durant told FOX Sports, referring to Minnesota Timberwolves’ rising star Anthony Edwards. “Just because of his energy every day. The pace that he plays at. The pace that he works out at. The s— that he talks. He gives everybody energy.”
At just 23 years old, Edwards has yet to appear in an NBA Finals, while James and Curry have eight championships between them. Yet, Edwards, often likened to a young Michael Jordan, was not surprised by Durant’s admiration.
“He telling the truth,” Edwards said with a wide grin. “That’s like my big brother, man. I love KD. He’s my favorite player of all time, so I appreciate that, for sure.”
Warriors coach Steve Kerr, who led Team USA during their gold medal run in Paris, witnessed the camaraderie between Durant, Curry, and James as they embraced Edwards.
Kerr, who played alongside Michael Jordan, reflected on how the league’s legends interacted with emerging talent. He noted that the current generation of stars is more open to mentoring young players like Edwards.
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(Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
Despite being regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, Durant faces criticism regarding his leadership skills. This narrative has been challenged by Edwards, who trained with Durant and other NBA stars over the summer.
“I think it’s bulls–t,” Edwards reiterated to FOX Sports when asked about the criticism of Durant as a leader.
Edwards observed Durant’s dedication to the game firsthand. He noted that Durant’s passion for basketball exemplifies a different kind of leadership.
“All he cares about is basketball, so that’s leading right there,” Edwards explained. “If your best player only cares about basketball, that’s a way of leading. I think people view leadership as just being vocal. I think there are multiple ways in being a leader. He’s definitely a great leader.”
Edwards shared how Durant took him under his wing during their time with Team USA, providing guidance and support that he found invaluable.
Durant’s influence on Edwards is deeply personal. The first NBA game Edwards attended featured Durant’s Oklahoma City Thunder, and he has long admired Durant’s skills and work ethic.
In their playoff matchup last season, Edwards made a significant impression, averaging 31 points per game against the Suns. His confidence and competitive spirit caught Durant’s attention. Rather than reacting negatively to Edwards’ trash talk, Durant found it amusing.
When Edwards expressed his eagerness to play alongside Durant during the Olympics, Durant embraced the opportunity to mentor him.
During their time together, Durant learned about Edwards’ background, including his struggles with loss and the impact of his mother’s love for basketball on his life.
“My mom loved KD,” Edwards shared. “He was her favorite player growing up. Every time there was a game on the TV, the only way she’d watch it was if KD was on it.”
Durant, who values family, resonated with Edwards’ story. Both players share similar experiences of loss that have shaped their dedication to basketball.
“I could sense that we have something in common with going through some stuff at an early age,” Durant noted.
Durant’s approach to mentoring Edwards contrasts sharply with past legends who often kept their distance from younger players. Instead of viewing Edwards as a rival, Durant sees him as a brother.
“I respected that he loved watching me play,” Durant said. “You never know who’s watching you when you do this. And for you to impact somebody as great as him, it makes me feel like I’m doing something right out here every time I walk into the gym.”
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Historically, the NBA has seen a different approach. When Michael Jordan entered the league in 1984, he faced a more guarded environment. Legends like Magic Johnson and Larry Bird were not inclined to share their wisdom.
Kerr reflected on this mentality during his career, noting how players were often reluctant to help emerging talents. This contrasts sharply with the current willingness of stars like Durant to nurture the next generation.
Kerr believes this shift is significant. He stated, “I think guys are ready to help lift up a guy like Anthony Edwards before he wins a championship.”
(Photo by Erick W. Rasco /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
LeBron James, another player who faced similar challenges, also emphasizes the importance of support for younger players. He has praised both Edwards and San Antonio Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama, recognizing their potential and encouraging their growth.
James has made it clear that he wants to inspire the next generation of stars, hoping to leave a positive impact on the league’s future.
“I would hope that we are some of a mentor-slash-inspiration on how to play the game,” James said. “So, we would hope that we left an imprint to the younger generation that’s coming up in our game.”
(Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images)
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For Edwards, the backing of established stars has been invaluable. He has gained insights into their work ethic and mindset, helping him navigate the challenges of being a young player in the league.
“I’m super happy, man,” Edwards expressed. “I used to watch these guys on TV, and I never imagined being in this position. Being on the court with these guys, going against them is a dream come true.”
LA Clippers coach Tyronn Lue, who observed the interactions during the summer, noted the positive impact of mentorship on young players like Edwards.
“I think it was good for Ant just to see how KD works,” Lue said. “Every time KD is on the floor, he’s doing stuff at game speed, taking game shots, nothing is wasted.”
Durant’s willingness to help Edwards is a reflection of his own journey, as he recognizes the importance of supporting the next generation.
“His personality, just how he approaches the game, how much he loves the game,” Durant said. “We have similarities.”
Edwards is eager to absorb all the knowledge he can, knowing that having the support of his idol is a rare opportunity.
Edwards is determined to rise to the occasion, hoping to one day match the greatness of those who have inspired him.
“He’s the greatest to me,” he said.
