Anthony Edwards has never been one to shy away from the moment - and after a career night against the Spurs, he didn’t hold back when the mics came on either.
“They’ve got Wemby,” Edwards said postgame. “He’s supposed to be face of the league, so I’ve always gotta get up for that one.”
That’s vintage Ant - competitive, candid, and fully locked in. He knows the spotlight is a little brighter when Victor Wembanyama is on the other side, and he clearly relishes that challenge.
Edwards didn’t just show up - he showed out. And when asked about the matchup, he made it clear he would’ve welcomed even more of it.
“I loved it. I loved it,” he said.
“I wish we could have just moved everybody out the way and just checked up. Me versus him.”
That’s the kind of mentality you love to see from a rising star. Edwards isn’t ducking the hype surrounding Wembanyama - he’s embracing it, using it as fuel.
And yet, he’s also staying true to who he is. When asked again about the “face of the league” label, something that’s been floated his way more than once, Edwards didn’t hesitate.
“Victor can have it,” he said. “I feel like you’ve got to carry this on your shoulders like people want you to be.
And I’m going to be myself no matter what. So, I don’t really want too much pressure.”
That’s a telling quote. Edwards isn’t chasing titles off the court - he’s chasing wins on it.
"They've got Wemby..."⬇️
— Hector Ledesma (@HectorLedesmaTV) January 18, 2026
-Asked Anthony Edwards what it is about the #Spurs that brings out some of his best
About going toe-to-toe w/Vic...
"I love it. I wish we could've just move everybody out of the way...me vs. him"
On who would win 1-1 in that scenario
"Me"
-Ant#PorVida pic.twitter.com/45Ey2TtUbi
He’s not interested in the marketing machine or the narrative crown. He just wants to hoop, and he wants to do it his way.
It’s also worth noting the connection between the two young stars. Like Edwards, Wembanyama entered the league as a No. 1 overall pick, the top selection in the 2023 NBA Draft and widely regarded as the most hyped prospect since LeBron James. The spotlight has followed Wemby from day one, and Edwards clearly respects that - even as he’s trying to outplay him every time they share the floor.
What we’re seeing is the early stages of a potential rivalry, but it’s one built on mutual respect and elite-level competitiveness. Edwards doesn’t need the crown.
He just wants the ball. And when it’s time to go head-to-head with the league’s next big thing, he’s not backing down - he’s stepping up.