Anthony Edwards Biography: Rising NBA Star, Career Stats, Highlights & Personal Life

Introduction: Who Is Anthony Edwards?

Anthony Edwards

Early Life and Background

Full Name: Anthony DeVante Edwards
Date of Birth: August 5, 2001
Birthplace: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Nationality: American
Height: 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
Weight: 225 lbs (102 kg)
Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
Nickname: Ant, Ant-Man

Anthony Edwards grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, where he was raised primarily by his older siblings following the tragic deaths of both his mother and grandmother due to cancer within months of each other in 2015. At just 14 years old, Edwards faced adversity that would shape his mature, fearless mentality.

Initially drawn to football, where he played as a running back and quarterback, Anthony eventually transitioned to basketball full-time. By the time he was in high school, Edwards had become one of the most electrifying high school players in the country.

High School Career

Anthony Edwards played for the Holy Spirit Preparatory School in Atlanta and quickly became a top national recruit. He was a five-star recruit, ranked No. 1 in the ESPN 100 class of 2019. His performances were lauded for his natural scoring ability, leaping ability, and dominant presence.

His high school accolades include:

McDonald’s All-American (2019)
Jordan Brand Classic selection
USA Today All-USA First Team

College Career at the University of Georgia

Anthony Edwards committed to playing college basketball at the University of Georgia, staying close to home. He played one season for the Georgia Bulldogs under head coach Tom Crean.

Georgia Bulldogs Highlights (2019–2020)

Averaged 19.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game
Named SEC Freshman of the Year
Dropped 37 points against Michigan State in the Maui Invitational — one of the most talked-about performances of the college season

Although Georgia did not make the NCAA tournament, Edwards was the consensus top shooting guard in the draft class, known for his pro-ready frame and athleticism.

2020 NBA Draft: No. 1 Overall Pick

On November 18, 2020, Anthony Edwards was selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2020 NBA Draft, ahead of James Wiseman and LaMelo Ball. His selection marked a major milestone for the franchise, signaling a new era built around young talent.

NBA Career with the Minnesota Timberwolves

Rookie Season (2020–2021)

Edwards immediately made an impact in his rookie season, finishing as a finalist for Rookie of the Year.

Notable rookie stats:

19.3 points per game
4.7 rebounds
2.9 assists
32.9% from 3-point range

He scored 42 points against the Phoenix Suns, becoming the third-youngest player in NBA history to score 40+ points in a game at that time. His athleticism, confidence, and clutch shot-making quickly silenced doubters.

Sophomore Season & Rise to Stardom (2021–2022)

In his second year, Edwards elevated his game further:

Averaged 21.3 PPG
Improved 3-point shooting and defense
Delivered consistent scoring and high-energy play

He became a fan favorite for his candid interviews and viral dunk highlights, including a poster dunk against Yuta Watanabe, which became a defining image of his early career.

Breakout & All-Star Recognition (2022–2023)

The 2022–2023 season solidified Edwards as a superstar in the making:

Averaged 24.6 PPG, 5.8 RPG, and 4.4 APG
Made his first NBA All-Star appearance
Helped lead the Timberwolves to the NBA Playoffs
Became the youngest player in franchise history to be named an All-Star

His playoff performances showcased his maturity, intensity, and two-way dominance, drawing comparisons to legends like Dwyane Wade.

Anthony Edwards Career Stats (as of 2024)

Season	Games	PPG	RPG	APG	SPG	FG%	3P%
2020–21	72	19.3	4.7	2.9	1.1	41.7	32.9
2021–22	72	21.3	4.8	3.8	1.5	44.1	35.7
2022–23	79	24.6	5.8	4.4	1.6	45.9	36.9
2023–24	80	26.1	5.7	5.0	1.5	46.2	37.5

Edwards is trending upward in every major statistical category and has become a foundational piece for Minnesota’s future.

Anthony Edwards in the 2023 FIBA World Cup

In 2023, Anthony Edwards was selected to represent Team USA at the FIBA Basketball World Cup, where he emerged as the team’s undisputed leader.

Notable World Cup Performances:

Led Team USA in scoring (over 18 PPG)
Had a 35-point game against Lithuania
Earned praise from coach Steve Kerr and former players like Dwyane Wade and Kevin Durant

Though Team USA finished fourth, Edwards proved he could lead on the international stage, drawing global attention.

Anthony Edwards’ Playing Style and Strengths

Anthony Edwards combines raw power with graceful movement. His playing style is defined by:

Elite athleticism: One of the best leapers and dunkers in the league
Three-level scoring: Can shoot from deep, attack the rim, or score mid-range
Toughness: Physically strong, unafraid of contact
Defensive upside: Can guard 1–3 with intensity
Confidence and charisma: Natural leader on and off the floor

Off-Court Personality and Lifestyle

Anthony is known for his humor, media charm, and down-to-earth personality. He regularly gives hilarious postgame interviews and is loved for being authentic and relatable.

Interests

Loves football and still talks about possibly playing in the NFL
Enjoys video games and music
Open about family, especially the loss of his mother and grandmother, which motivates him to succeed

Endorsements

Adidas: Edwards signed a multi-million-dollar shoe deal with Adidas in 2020
Beats by Dre
Panini America

His marketability is skyrocketing as he becomes one of the league’s most recognizable faces.

Net Worth and Contracts

As of 2025, Anthony Edwards’ net worth is estimated at $20–30 million, fueled by:

NBA salary
Endorsement deals
Investments and business ventures

He signed a max rookie extension in 2023 worth up to $260 million over 5 years, signaling his value to the Timberwolves and the league.

Anthony Edwards’ Legacy and Future Outlook

Anthony Edwards is only in his early 20s, yet he’s already seen as a potential MVP candidate, All-NBA talent, and future NBA champion. With his current trajectory, he could become the greatest player in Minnesota Timberwolves history, surpassing even legends like Kevin Garnett.

Fans and analysts alike believe Edwards has the tools to become:

A perennial All-Star
One of the best two-way guards of his generation
A global ambassador for the NBA

Conclusion: Why Anthony Edwards Is the Future of the NBA

Anthony Edwards isn’t just a player — he’s an experience. With his explosive athleticism, humble roots, and relentless drive, he represents the future of basketball. Whether he’s dunking over defenders or cracking jokes in interviews, Edwards is creating a legacy that’s as exciting as it is inspiring.

He embodies the modern NBA star: talented, marketable, and grounded in real-life experiences that fuel his journey.