3 Players who will benefit most from playing for Team USA

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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – AUGUST 07: Anthony Edwards #10 of the United States is guarded by Tremont Waters #51 of Puerto Rico in the second half of a 2023 FIBA World Cup exhibition game at T-Mobile Arena on August 07, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The United States defeated Puerto Rico 117-74. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /

Team USA #1: Anthony Edwards

The former number-one pick has already taken the league by storm. He made his first All-Star team as an injury replacement, carried the Timberwolves to back-to-back playoff appearances, and just signed a giant contract extension. He is one of the bigger names on Team USA, so it was surprising when Coach Kerr first left him out of the starting lineup. Since the team’s first scrimmages, he has replaced Cam Johnson as the fifth starter alongside Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, Brandon Ingram, and Jaren Jackson Jr., however, and impressed with his strong two-way play.

Many experts have widely named Edwards as the key to a successful tournament. This team has no clear superstar or go-to scorer, and it seems that everyone is just waiting for Edwards to claim that role. He is arguably the most explosive and mesmerizing scorer on the team and could easily take over every game. It is hard to stop someone who can run faster and jump higher than anyone else on the court while also taking on some of the toughest defensive assignments.

Playing for Team USA usually has a positive effect on rising young stars. Kevin Durant, for example, played at the FIBA World Cup in 2010 just before entering his fourth NBA season, led the team to a gold medal, and took off from there. For Edwards, a successful tournament could cement his status as a regular All-Star and elite two-way player. If he stands out in this tournament and continues to set the NBA on fire, he could very well become the new face of the league.

A change of guard is inevitable, and it is coming closer and closer with every passing season, so it is time for someone to clearly emerge as the next big thing in American basketball. Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are certainly up there, but when it comes to American players, no one has really separated themselves yet.

With Ja Morant, Zion Williamson, and Trae Young, there are various concerns, and Edwards could very well surpass them on his rise to superstardom. One thing that already sets him apart from most young stars is his defensive talent. Edwards is more than just a high-level scorer.

Playing for Team USA is not only a chance to prepare Edwards for the upcoming season with the Timberwolves but also to show the world his impressive two-way game and lay the foundation for future greatness.

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