From Larry Bird vs. Magic Johnson to LeBron James vs. Steph Curry, rivalries have defined generations of basketball. And the NBA’s next great rivalry is starting to emerge: Anthony Edwards vs. Victor Wembanyama. As the careers of LeBron, Curry and Kevin Durant begin to wind down, it’s fair to think about what players will define the next era.
As the two best players under the age of 25, Ant and Wemby are undoubtedly next in line to take over as faces of the competition. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic are clearly in this conversation as well, but at 27 and 30 they are a bit older. As such, it’s clear that Ant and Wemby feel ready to take the reins in terms of the real younger generation.
It’s not just that Ant and Wemby are great players, but when they play against each other there’s clearly an extra sense of energy. Heck, we even saw this in the All-Star Game. The match between Team Stars and Team World was really exciting and it is clear that the two players get the best out of each other.
After the game, Edwards credited Wemby for setting the tone of the All-Star Game. Earlier this season, Edwards recorded a career-high 55 points against Wemby and the San Antonio Spurs.
Anthony Edwards versus Victor Wembanyama is the ideal rivalry
For me, everything about this Edwards-Wemby match makes for a perfect rivalry. From an on-court perspective, Edward’s ungodly athleticism and three-point shooting, compared to Wemby’s absurd size and all-round skills, are a nice contrast. Both styles of play are fun to watch for die-hard and casual fans alike.
Think about some of the great rivalries in the league’s history, and the contrast in styles is partly what makes them so great. LeBron and Steph are the perfect example of this. While LeBron’s athleticism, size and IQ made him one of the league’s dominant players, the 6-foot-1 Curry became an all-time great thanks to his unparalleled three-point shooting (along with his dazzling handles and speed).
As much as it’s about the play on the field, let’s face it: star personalities are just as important when it comes to creating a legendary rivalry. And just like the opposing play styles generate interest.
Edwards and Wemby are opposite personalities in the best possible way. For better or for worse, Ant says whatever he wants. Six years in the league, PR training is not in his vocabulary. Ant will always be himself; he’s confident, authentic and downright hilarious – all qualities that make him perfect to be a star.
Wembanyama, on the other hand, is more introverted and reflective. He is a true intellectual with a passion for reading and chess, among other things. Despite being only 22, Wemby sounds like a 15-year NBA veteran, and he has sounded that way since his rookie year. And with international basketball booming, there’s a fun subplot involving American-born Edwards and French-born Wemby.
Again, this contrast is what makes things so interesting. The rivalry between Bird and Magic is a perfect example of the power of contrasting personalities. Bird was an introverted player in the traditionally working-class city of Boston. Conversely, the extroverted magic played out in the bright lights of LA.
Some fans fear the possibility of a post-LeBron and Curry NBA. However, it’s hard to argue that the NBA isn’t in good hands and the burgeoning Ant-Wemby rivalry is a major reason for that.
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