Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards still a pretty big deal in Atlanta

Atlanta – The Sunday Funday gathering at Irby’s Tavern had its attention on the Braves, as evidenced by the vast majority of the twenty-some TV sets tuned to the team’s “Sunday Night Baseball” appearance against the New York Mets, complete with game audio. A few of those TVs flipped over to TNT shortly before tipoff of Game 4 of the Timberwolves and Nuggets series at Target Center. With it came a few basketball fans – some just looking for a playoff game but others eager to watch the ascending star from Atlanta, Anthony Edwards.

Local Pride for a Rising Star

“They’ve got a great shot at winning it all this season,” Guy Nardulli, a Chicago native and Los Angeles resident said of the Timberwolves before turning his thoughts to Edwards. “I’ll say it like this: Michael Jordan is the GOAT – greatest of all time. This kid’s got a shot. He’s super talented, and you can’t guard him.”

Edwards, 22, grew up in the Oakland City section of South Atlanta and caught rides sometimes lasting an hour through traffic to reach Holy Spirit Preparatory School on the city’s north side. From there, he played one year at the University of Georgia before being selected No. 1 overall by the Wolves in the 2020 NBA draft. Now in his fourth NBA season, Edwards’ performance in Game 4 showcased his skills and potential.

Local Support and Recognition

About that time, Da-Shon Dixon, a Savannah, Ga., native and a law school alumnus from Georgia, took a seat at the bar and immediately focused his attention on Edwards. Dixon recalled following Edwards since his high school days, noting, “Obviously, he’s a phenomenal basketball player, but his personality just shines. If you ask me, he’s the next up. He’s the heir apparent to LeBron James.”

The game saw the Nuggets stretch their lead, but Edwards rose to the occasion, sinking three-pointers and scoring a career postseason-high 44 points. Despite the Wolves falling short in Game 4, Edwards’ performance left a lasting impression on the fans at Irby’s Tavern.

Recognition of Talent and Determination

“He didn’t will his team to win, but he buttressed the argument that he’s among the NBA’s best,” shared one observer as patrons paid their checks and tipped their caps to Edwards following the game.

The Wolves may have lost Game 4, but they haven’t lost three in a row all season. With a chance to bounce back in Denver, they will seek to secure a spot in the Western Conference finals with a win on Thursday. The dedication and talent of players like Anthony Edwards continue to draw admiration and respect from fans, both in Atlanta and beyond.

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