There has been plenty of buzz around Anthony Edwards ever since Team USA began their preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Boldly asserting himself as the team's top option during training camp, Minnesota Timberwolves fans and everyone involved with or observing the American national team were made clear of Ant's otherworldly confidence from the jump.
That belief in himself has translated into stellar play for Team USA from their first exhibition match all the way until Wednesday's win over South Sudan in group phase play. He may or may not be the "top option" that he asserted himself to be, but there is no questioning Edwards' importance to this team for anyone with eyes to see.
Against South Sudan, Ant poured in 13 points on 4-for-9 shooting, made two of his four three-point attempts, dished out two assists and logged three steals as well. During and after the game, social media was buzzing about the energizing performance from the supremely talented young guard.
Edwards was Team USA's third-leading scorer against South Sudan
Late in the first quarter, Edwards isolated against a South Sudan defender and took it to the cup for a tough two points. Later, he showed off his strong defensive chops and forced a turnover that led to a quick USA bucket.
Toward the end of the contest, Ant showed off his competitive mentality in playing until the final buzzer, even with the game basically already decided. Some window dressing gave him an additional five points in the final 30 seconds of action.
Throughout all this, social media and Timberwolves fans in particular were buzzing about his performance. Throughout this whole Olympic run, Edwards' play has been under a microscope due to him being the biggest young star on a team largely dominated by elder statesmen. It is safe to say he is continuing to impress as Team USA moves to 2-0 and gets ready for the knockout round.