The conversation about the next face of the NBA has gained traction in recent months, driven by the rise of Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards.
LeBron James has held that title for years, with 21 All-Star appearances, four MVPs, four Finals MVPs, four NBA championships, and more. But at 40 years old, his career is likely nearing its end.
Back in February, Edwards was asked if he saw himself as a candidate for that title. He humbly said no and pointed to San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama instead.
On Tuesday, during TNT’s "Inside the NBA," Charles Barkley weighed in on the topic and said he doesn’t believe Edwards is the face of the league.
TNT NBA analyst Charles Barkley.
TNT NBA analyst Charles Barkley.
Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Instead of Edwards or even James, he named three recent MVPs: Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic, Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, whom he said "has taken it."
"Hey, ESPN, I love you guys," Barkley said. "Don't try to make Anthony Edwards the face of the NBA. The face of the NBA is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Joker, and Giannis. You can't give it to people. They have to take it. And Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has taken it."
Gilgeous-Alexander won his first NBA MVP this season after averaging 32.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game. The 26-year-old led the Thunder to the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and the league’s best record at 68-14.
He’s in his seventh NBA season after being drafted No. 11 overall by the Charlotte Hornets, then traded to the Los Angeles Clippers on draft night. After his rookie year, he was traded again, this time to the Thunder.
Gilegous-Alexander now has the Thunder one win away from the NBA Finals, with Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves scheduled for Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. ET on ESPN.