Carmelo Anthony claims Jayson Tatum doesn’t have ‘AURA’ like Anthony Edwards to be ‘face of NBA’

The conversation raises questions about what makes a player a "face of the NBA."

Carmelo Anthony claims Jayson Tatum doesn’t have ‘AURA’ like Anthony Edwards to be ‘face of NBA’

Jayson Tatum and Anthony Edwards

Carmelo Anthony and Dwyane Wade recently shared their thoughts on Jayson Tatum and Anthony Edwards, two of the NBA’s rising stars. Despite Tatum’s impressive achievements, including leading the Boston Celtics to an NBA title and earning three All-NBA First Team nods, he is not considered one of the next faces of the NBA. 

Anthony believes Jayson Tatum lacks the “it” factor, specifically the upfront confidence and aura that Edwards possesses. He and Wade then praised Ant-Man’s confidence and aura and warned that if he doesn’t achieve success and reach MVP level soon, the narrative about him will change quickly. 

He won. He's successful. The reason why we put Anthony Edwards there is because of his aura. If JT had that aura, it's over.
Carmelo Anthony on the 7PM podcast:

JT, on the other hand, has faced unrealistic expectations that have prohibited him from receiving the recognition he deserves. Anthony and Wade’s comments highlight the importance of aura and confidence in the NBA, and how it can impact a player’s perception and legacy.

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The conversation raises questions about what makes a player a “face of the NBA” and whether Tatum’s achievements warrant more recognition.

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Steve Kerr’s Draft regret and how Anthony Edwards proved him wrong

The Golden State Warriors coach, Steve Kerr had doubts about Anthony Edwards’ potential during a pre-draft workout in 2020. Kerr questioned Edwards’ work ethic and humility, which led the Warriors to pass on him in the draft. Instead, they selected James Wiseman, who failed to live up to expectations.

Kerr had his doubts about the guard from Georgia who put up big scoring numbers that didn’t always translate to team success… The workout did little to sway Kerr’s opinion. Kerr stopped the session after an hour and tore into the guard. ‘He was like, ‘Imagine everybody walking through the door has $50 million. Because the way you’re working out, you’re not the type of guy to give $50 million to.

Justin Holland, Anthony Edwards’ former trainer and now business manager via The Ringer

Anthony Edwards, on the other hand, has emerged as one of the league’s top young players, leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Conference Finals and earning a spot on Team USA. Kerr is now coaching Edwards on the national team, where he’s impressed by his talent and work ethic.

Kerr’s initial assessment of Edwards has proven to be a costly mistake, as the Warriors could have extended their dynasty with Edwards on board. Now, Edwards is determined to prove himself as one of the world’s best players, and Kerr will have to live with the knowledge that he underestimated him.

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