Golden State Warriors’ Steve Kerr is currently busy coaching Team USA as they prepare for the upcoming FIBA World Cup. Anthony Edwards, who recently erupted for 34 points against Germany, has been told he will be coming off the bench during the World Cup. Speaking to Joe Vardon of ‘The Athletic’, Edwards confirmed that he wasn’t happy with Kerr’s decision, according to a tweet by NBA Central. He claimed that the team did not have a Kobe Bryant, with Kerr using the example of Dwyane Wade coming off the bench to accommodate the LA Lakers legend.
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Anthony Edwards has been in terrific form for Team USA thus far. Against Germany, he helped USA fight back from a 16-point 3rd quarter deficit to register an 8-point win. Considering his performances, it is only natural that the Minnesota Timberwolves star feels hard done by, due to Kerr’s decision.
Steve Kerr uses the Dwyane Wade-Kobe Bryant analogy for Ant
Anthony Edwards has shown terrific form for both his NBA team and Team USA, at the age of 22. Finishing last season with 24.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists, he has shown similar form for his nation.
Averaging 19.2 points in 5 exhibition matches thus far, he has forced his way into the starting lineup despite Kerr’s initial reluctance. Steve Kerr spoke about Dwyane Wade and Kobe Bryant, claiming that the former had to come off the bench in order to accommodate Kobe. However, Edwards had a simple response to that problem:
Anthony Edwards admits he wasn’t cool with Steve Kerr trying to bring him off the bench
“He said Dwyane Wade came off the bench when Kobe played. I was like, ‘all right, we don’t have a Kobe.’”
(Via @joevardon ) pic.twitter.com/zp7vUlUx5E
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) August 24, 2023
If the 22-year-old remains healthy, he can play a major role in Team USA’s path to the gold medal. Edwards also has a fair chance of finishing as the tournament’s MVP and highest scorer and has proven himself as the obvious starting choice for his coach.
Team USA set to tip-off World Cup campaign against New Zealand
The talented Team USA roster is the obvious favorite for the tournament. After tipping off their tournament against New Zealand, they will be up against Greece on 28th August.
The likes of Kerr and Edwards will be happy with Giannis Antetokounmpo’s absence from the tournament. His elder brother is the only NBA player that is available for Greece.
Rounding off their third group stage game against Jordan, Team USA has a straightforward path to the knockouts. With Edwards leading the line, the expectation will be a gold medal for Team USA.
