Victor Wembanyama, Anthony Edwards
Anthony Edwards and Victor Wembanyama delivered another chapter in what is quickly becoming one of the NBA’s most compelling young rivalries on Saturday night, this time with the San Antonio Spurs holding off a furious Minnesota Timberwolves comeback for a 126-123 win at Frost Bank Center.
Edwards poured in a season-high 55 points, including 26 in the fourth quarter, as Minnesota erased a 25-point deficit and nearly stole the game late, per Bleacher Report. Wembanyama answered with 39 points and nine rebounds, making timely plays down the stretch to help San Antonio survive. The duel only intensified a narrative that has followed both stars throughout the season, with Edwards later making it clear how he views the matchup and the league-wide conversation surrounding it.
Edwards Embraces Facing Wembanyama
After the game, Edwards spoke candidly about what it is like sharing the floor with the Spurs’ 7-foot-5 centerpiece. The Timberwolves guard admitted the physical limitations of guarding someone with Wembanyama’s size frustrate him, but he also made it clear that the challenge fuels him.
“It drives me crazy not being able to guard him because he’s 7’5”,” Edwards said. “But I loved that matchup. I just wish we could’ve cleared everyone out and made it a real one-on-one, him against me.”
When asked directly who would win that hypothetical battle, Edwards did not hesitate. “Me,” he replied.
Edwards also explained how he would try to level the playing field defensively, even against such an overwhelming physical advantage. He said he would crowd Wembanyama early and hope the possession stayed short, limiting the chance for the Spurs star to simply overpower him near the rim. Edwards acknowledged the difficulty of that task, noting Wembanyama’s height makes any matchup against him a challenge.
Those comments came after another huge night for Edwards, who scored the second-most points in any quarter by a Timberwolves player in the play-by-play era, according to ESPN Research. His 55-point performance also stood as the highest scoring output this season by a player in a loss, underscoring how dominant he was despite Minnesota coming up short.
“Supposed to Be the Face of the League”
Edwards’ competitive edge showed again when he was asked why he always seems to elevate his game against San Antonio. His answer offered insight into how he views both Wembanyama and the broader league narrative.
“They’ve got Wemby. He’s supposed to be the face of the league,” Edwards said. “So of course, against them, I’m always fully locked in.”
The wording stood out. Edwards acknowledged Wembanyama’s status without fully embracing the idea that the league’s hierarchy is already decided. He framed the matchup as motivation rather than admiration, making it clear that facing a player often labeled as the NBA’s future sharpens his focus.
Wembanyama responded with perspective of his own. When asked about Edwards’ aggressive mindset, including comments about trying to dunk on him, the Spurs star took a long-term view. “Over the years, I will try and block him more than he dunks on me,” Wembanyama said.
He also addressed the broader “face of the league” discussion, emphasizing authenticity over labels. Wembanyama explained that longevity comes from being oneself, accepting that public reaction will vary, and appreciating the opportunity to play the game at the highest level.
On the floor, the third meeting between the teams reflected that mutual respect and competitiveness. Edwards gave Minnesota its first lead of the second half with an 11-foot fadeaway with 3:28 remaining. Wembanyama answered immediately with an 18-footer on the next possession, tying the game and setting the tone for a tense finish.
San Antonio ultimately made the final plays, including a key late three-pointer from Keldon Johnson, but the night again centered on Edwards and Wembanyama trading baskets and statements, ESPN reports. For Edwards, the matchup clearly represents more than just another game. It is a measuring stick, and one he embraces every time the Timberwolves see the Spurs.