ANTHONY EDWARDS HOLDS a football tightly in his right hand while taking aim at a basketball hoop approximately 20 feet away. Taking a short step forward with his left foot, he releases a smooth spiral aimed at the rim, confident it will make it — he knows from the moment he lets it fly that it’s going in.
“I don’t just talk,” he shouts just as the ball swishes in the net. ”I DON’T JUST BE MOTHERF—ING TALKING.”
Laughter erupts from Justin Jefferson as he bounces a basketball to the spot where Edwards just shot. Clad in a black No. 5 Timberwolves jersey and black sweatpants, Jefferson gathers himself with a few high dribbles. “Damn, I got to make it,” he remarks while Edwards teases him in the background. Music thumps loudly, and a crowd surrounds them, capturing moments on cameras and phones. Despite the chaos, Jefferson and Edwards remain focused.
The two icons are engaged in a game of PIG within a vast warehouse and studio in Minneapolis. It’s late August, just a week ahead of the NFL season and over a month before the NBA season begins. Their purpose here is to participate in an interview and photo shoot, recreating an iconic image long desired by Minnesota sports fans and others.
Back in 2000, Kevin Garnett and Randy Moss famously posed together for a Sport magazine cover, each wearing the other’s jersey after Moss proposed the idea. The image continues to resonate with newer generations. Now, two gifted young Black athletes, overflowing with charisma, have risen to prominence in Minnesota sports once more. This moment is about honoring the past while fashioning a new symbol to convey their own legacies in the Twin Cities.
Even 30 minutes after finishing their photo shoot, the laughter, banter, and competitive spirit persist as they continue trading shots. Edwards, a football sensation during his youth in Georgia, asserts he can score through the hoop with a football more times than Jefferson, a former basketball standout from Louisiana, can sink jump shots.
Dressed in black Wolves basketball shorts and a purple No. 18 Vikings jersey that fits snugly, Edwards leads the game. Jefferson steps up for a jump shot, extending his right arm and holding the pose for the follow-through. The ball effortlessly passes through the net, prompting Jefferson to turn and face Edwards. “Yeaaah. Yeaaah,” he grins, nodding as they share a moment, leaving Edwards momentarily speechless.
This exchange signifies more than just a friendly game of PIG; it embodies proving something to one another. Both Edwards and Jefferson grew up and attended college in the South before being drafted to Minnesota in 2020 — Jefferson at No. 22 by the Vikings and Edwards as the first overall pick by the Timberwolves. Neither had much familiarity with Minneapolis, other than its notorious cold weather. In the lead-up to Edwards’ draft, he and his friends would play Lil Yachty’s “Minnesota” — “Cause it get cold like Minnesota. Cold like Minnesota.”
As Jefferson, a Pro Bowl wide receiver, and Edwards, an All-Star shooting guard, ascended to the pinnacle of their respective sports, a friendship flourished between them. They both secured lucrative contracts to play for two franchises eager for a championship. Together, they have emerged as symbols of hope for Minnesota, aspiring to create a lasting bond with the city. Now, however, the weight of expectation lies upon them to deliver more than just electrifying highlights.
“I just want to bring a championship to Minnesota,” Jefferson expresses. “The people here are incredible. The fan base is amazing. It’s about time we delivered.”
“If I can, I’m aiming to stay for my entire career,” Edwards adds.
“I ain’t trying to go nowhere.”
In terms of the game score, Edwards might take the win, but both have long since abandoned strict rules. Instead, they continue exchanging shots.
like two friends enjoying themselves at a playground. Uncertain about when they will get another opportunity like this, they are determined to maximize their time together.
Ever since their draft in 2020, fans have been urging Edwards and Jefferson to recreate the iconic photo of Garnett and Moss. “‘When are you guys going to do that?'” Edwards chuckles as he mimics their enthusiasm. “When are you guys going to do that?'” Marcus Smith for ESPN
EDWARDS IS RUNNING LATE as he is preoccupied with seeking revenge. Cam Newton, the NFL MVP of 2015, recently triumphed over him in Madden NFL 25, and Edwards couldn’t ignore the teasing from his manager.
“If he ever loses [at anything], he will practice endlessly until he’s ready for a rematch,” explained Justin Holland, Edwards’ long-time trainer and business manager. “And odds are, you probably won’t win.”
Edwards takes Madden very seriously. Even his most devoted gamer friends and teammates, who spoke to ESPN for this story, avoid challenging him; he’s that competitive. Thus, Edwards decided to challenge Newton online just before the shoot and won decisively, 36-5. Only then did he arrive at the warehouse and greet Jefferson with a fist bump in the dressing room.
During our interview, Jefferson is lounging on a brown leather couch while Edwards occupies an armchair across from me. Next to them, a 24-by-24 photo of Garnett and Moss from Sports magazine stands ready for reference as they plan to replicate the iconic image later in the day.
Similar to Garnett and Moss, both Edwards and Jefferson grew up participating in each other’s sports. As a child, Jefferson thrived in basketball, learning the game from his father and playing in the backyard with his two older brothers. Edwards initially fell in love with football and played in various positions until his brother excelled in basketball, prompting him to focus on hoops to keep up.
When I inquire if he could have pursued an NFL career, Edwards answers without hesitation. “Yeah, for sure.”
What held him back?
“I got hurt,” he replies.
In the eighth grade, Edwards fractured an ankle toward the end of the football season, which sidelined him for the subsequent basketball season. After that, it was time to retire from football permanently.
“He got huuuuuuuurt,” Jefferson says, laughing as his 6-foot-1 silhouette expands across the couch.
Edwards is convinced he could have turned professional in football had he continued. According to him, he still possesses the ability to play in the NFL.
“If I win a ring in the next three to four years,” he states, pausing to emphasize his next point.
“You’re not going to football,” Jefferson counters, shaking his head.
“I’m going to play football,” Edwards insists.
“No, you’re not,” Jefferson replies.
“And this will be one of the reasons why — because he thinks I can’t play football. I’m going to come play with you.”
“Just wait until he gets hit once …”
“I’m going to be [delivering the hits], though. I’m going to play strong safety.”
Edwards claims he would model his game after Kam Chancellor, the four-time Pro Bowler who played a crucial role in leading the Seattle Seahawks to a Super Bowl victory in 2014. His friends and teammates hear this sentiment frequently.
“He said the same thing to me,” Wolves center Naz Reid laughed, shaking his head. “He even says he could play tennis.”
“I’ve heard he thinks he can play in the NFL, MLB, NHL,” Wolves guard Mike Conley added, rolling his eyes.
“If it were quarterback, he envisions himself as the right-handed Michael Vick,” said Nick Maddox, Edwards’ childhood friend. “If he positions himself as a receiver, he’ll mention ‘Megatron’ Calvin Johnson or Julio Jones. As a cornerback, you know he’ll mention Deion [Sanders].”
“As a punt returner, he’d pick Devin Hester,” Maddox continued. “You suggest running back, and he’ll bring up Adrian Peterson.”
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 225 pounds, Edwards believes he would be significantly larger if he trained and lifted weights like a football player.
Several other NBA players might also transition successfully: LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard, Marcus Smart, Luguentz Dort, and Jalen Suggs.
“You guys have some incredibly athletic players,” Jefferson acknowledges for a brief moment. “But once you put on those shoulder pads and the helmet, you’ll get hit, and you’ll think, ‘Oh no. This isn’t for me—back to basketball.’
“However, you can’t just come play basketball,” Edwards retorts.
During the offseason, Jefferson participates in pickup basketball games for cardio, although he focuses mainly on shooting to minimize the risk of injury. In 2021, a highlight reel showcasing Jefferson’s ability to get above the rim went viral. He admits that he never had the advanced training to refine his ball handling and basketball nuances, but believes that with the right coaching, he could compete at a professional level.
“I’m not claiming I’ll be the best player in the league,” Jefferson expresses with outstretched hands. “But I’ll make it somewhere.”
Edwards is skeptical.
“Just based on my athletic ability, I’m going to score at least…” Jefferson begins.
“Nooo, not in the NBA,” Edwards interrupts.
“You’re insane. You really don’t think I can get somewhere?” Jefferson replies.
“Oh, you’ll be somewhere…” Edwards laughs, and the two share a moment of levity.
At 23, Edwards and 25-year-old Jefferson engage in a sibling-like banter. Edwards continuously cracks jokes and makes bold statements, while Jefferson alternates between keeping him grounded and encouraging him.
AS JEFFERSON IMPRESSED the scoreboard at LSU alongside Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, helping the Tigers achieve a perfect 15-0 title run in 2019, Edwards took notice. At that time, he was a freshman entering the SEC at Georgia, eager to make his own impact.
“That was a wild year,” Edwards reminisces. “That’s when he was dancing. I thought, ‘That would be me if I played football. I’d be putting on a show in the end zone and talking trash.’
As Edwards shares his recollection, Jefferson flexes and slaps his bicep with a wide grin.
“Say that again,” Jefferson prompts.
“Nah, I’m not going to give you too much,” Edwards replies.
“Say it again.”
“Stand down.”
After winning the national championship, Jefferson opted to declare for the NFL draft as a junior. His performance at the combine was so remarkable—running the 40-yard dash in 4.43 seconds—that Vikings legend Cris Carter called the front office, insisting they needed to draft Jefferson. “I noticed all the other receivers there,” Carter remarked. “I truly believed he had the potential to be the best.”
Once the Vikings selected Jefferson, Carter helped him acclimate to Minneapolis. He drew parallels between the city and the atmosphere at LSU: dedicated fans, packed stadiums, and a program known for producing legendary wide receivers.
“You know Minnesota’s going to have top-notch receivers,” noted Keenan McCardell, the Vikings’ receivers coach and former NFL wideout. “It could be divine intervention, bringing them here to play indoors and at high speed.”
However, relocating to a new city was no simple task, particularly in April 2020, as the country was still grappling with the coronavirus pandemic. In May, the murder of George Floyd by a police officer in Minneapolis sparked a summer of protests and unrest. “I was just trying to fit in, figuring out what was in store for our season,” Jefferson reflects. “We were discussing whether we’d even have a season. It was undoubtedly a tumultuous time.”
In his rookie season’s third game, Jefferson achieved his first touchdown, a 71-yard sprint celebrated with the Griddy dance, now his signature celebration. “He was thrilled to showcase the Griddy on the NFL stage,” recalls his brother Jordan, who played quarterback at LSU from 2008 to 2011. During high school, Jordan taught Justin how to entertain on the field by observing basketball and football legends known for their alter egos—LeBron James (King James) and Kobe Bryant (Black Mamba).
amba), Odell Beckham (OBJ) — and how they reshaped their identities on the field.
“About a week or two later, the entire high school started calling him J-Jets, J-Jettas, Jets,” Jordan recalled. “I would characterize J-Jets as tenacious, a leader, and an entertainer. He knows how to shine when the spotlight is on him.”
In 2020, Jefferson set the rookie single-season record for the most receiving yards in the Super Bowl era with 1,400 yards and earned a spot on the second-team All-Pro list. As the season drew to a close, he began to pay attention to the Wolves and their standout rookie, who had been selected first overall in the draft. It felt as though their paths were meant to intertwine.
“I had to become a close fan of him,” Jefferson said. “That’s when it truly began.”
Edwards and Jefferson are now recognized for their spectacular plays: Jefferson’s incredible catches and Edwards’ powerful dunks. Isaiah Vazquez/Getty Images, Francisco Manzano-Arechiga/NBAE via Getty Images
EDWARDS DIDN’T QUITE burst onto the Minnesota scene in the same manner as Jefferson. Initially, he came off the bench for a team that had ended the previous season with the third-worst record in the league. His playing time varied; sometimes he logged 30 minutes, while other times he played only 17. He scored 26 points in one January game but managed to score none two games later.
“It was obvious how young [Edwards] was,” Reid mentioned. “He was quiet and absorbed everything, learning along the way. It was a lot to take in, but he handled it well.”
Following a rough start to the 2020-21 season at 7-24, the Wolves dismissed coach Ryan Saunders. Shortly after Chris Finch stepped in as the new coach, the team had a road trip with a day off in Washington, D.C. Finch seized this chance to conduct one-on-one meetings to connect with his players.
Finch remembers how Edwards, then 19, entered the room with a beaming smile and infectious positivity. Edwards didn’t hesitate to share his story, detailing the loss of both his mother and grandmother to cancer in 2015 and how that experience motivates him to cherish every day.
“I felt for him,” Finch told me. “He was in the process of finding his footing when the coaching change occurred. He was apprehensive about how it might impact him. Young players, particularly those picked first often feel immense pressure to be everything.”
Finch aimed to guide Edwards to focus on his strengths. This meant encouraging him to attack the basket more often, reducing his pull-up jump shots, and creating more opportunities for catch-and-shoot situations to score easily. Less than three weeks later, Finch witnessed a breakthrough. Edwards scored 42 points in a victory against the Suns, becoming the third-youngest player in NBA history to score 40 or more points in a game.
“In that moment, we got a glimpse of what the future could hold,” Finch remarked.
Edwards secured second place in the Rookie of the Year voting and earned a position on the All-Rookie first team. He has improved his scoring average each season, rising from 19.3 points per game as a rookie to 25.9 last season, ultimately finishing seventh in MVP voting and making the second-team All-NBA. His confidence as a player has reached new heights, although it occasionally manifests in ways that might frustrate a coach, such as taking an ill-advised 3-pointer late in a game instead of managing the clock, simply in response to an opponent’s prior three-point shot.
“He wasn’t being reckless,” Finch explained. “It was more like, ‘You hit me, I’m hitting you back.'”
“He’s genuine. Not only is he authentic, but people are drawn to him. I remind him frequently, ‘You have a personality that makes others want to follow you. That gives you an edge in becoming a great leader.’
Similar to Jefferson, Edwards had to adapt to life in Minneapolis, often making trips back to Georgia during his early seasons. Yet, also like Jefferson, he felt a profound connection.
to another emerging talent in the city who seemed to be experiencing similar challenges. Thus, Edwards began attending Vikings games as Jefferson was carving out his reputation as one of the premier receivers in the NFL.
“He was going wild,” Edwards recalls. “Then I attended the game against the Giants, and he was just as energized. At that moment, I thought, ‘I have to become a fan.’ Then he came to one of my games – and we’ve been tight ever since.”
Adjusting to the harsh winters of the North took time for the southern-born stars, yet both have shown their dedication to Minneapolis by signing long-term contracts. “The people are incredible wherever you go,” Jefferson notes. “The fan base is passionate about both sports.” Marcus Smith for ESPN
BEFORE ANT AND JJ, there was KG and Moss. The first magazine shoot lasted merely about 10 minutes, and both icons – Garnett at age 23 and Moss at 22 – regret not fully appreciating that moment, unaware that they wouldn’t finish their careers in Minnesota. “We probably should’ve enjoyed that photo shoot a lot more,” Moss reflected in 2017.
“And we could have savored each other’s company, enjoying the city during those great times — it wasn’t all negative,” Garnett added.
“We were there to support one another, and that was the most significant aspect,” Moss said. ”You came to my games, and I came to yours.”
Currently, their photograph hangs over Edwards and Jefferson, as the two Minnesota stars reflect on the impact their predecessors had on them and the state. “The Minnesota legends,” Jefferson states. “They certainly had the state on lock. We are definitely the next ones in line.”
“KG is the greatest basketball player in Minnesota history. Right now, I’m aiming for that status,” Edwards expresses. “As for Randy, I appreciate [Adrian Peterson], too, but Randy tops the list. JJ is also aiming for that.”
Edwards primarily became acquainted with Moss through playing Madden. Jefferson would watch YouTube clips of Moss’ highlight-reel receptions and then attempt to replicate them on the field.
“He was all about those verticals,” Jefferson says. “Seeing that as a child and then trying to emulate it. I aimed to ‘Moss’ kids too. Even today, you hear kids saying, ‘Oh, you got Mossed,’ or, ‘I Mossed you.’
“Yeah, that name will be around forever,” Edwards agrees. “But his celebrations? I loved them. He inspired me to play football just for the chance to celebrate. Plus, I love trash-talking, so I have a soft spot for KG. He talked a lot of trash, just like I do. We’re basically the same person.”
Garnett and Moss in the original Sport magazine photo. Although the image never made it to the final publication, it still gained fame among Minnesota sports aficionados. SPORT Magazine
Edwards drew Garnett’s ire this summer after stating in The Wall Street Journal that Michael Jordan was the only player with true skills during his era. Legends like Isiah Thomas and Magic Johnson responded to Edwards’ comments. Garnett also took issue, questioning whether today’s players could have thrived in the physically intense game of the 1990s.
“To be part of that conversation, you need to be well-informed,” Garnett stated during an appearance on the “All The Smoke” podcast. “I’m rooting for you, young fella, but you need to know what you’re talking about because what you said makes no sense.”
When I bring this topic up during the interview, Edwards leans forward in his chair. He asserts that players like Garnett could compete in any era but emphasizes his respect for the skill level of today’s NBA players, insisting that contemporary athletes would have thrived against the previous generation, regardless of the physicality involved.
This prompts Jefferson to tease him a bit.
“What do you think you would’ve scored if you played in that era?” Jefferson asks, rubbing his hands together.
“I would’ve been …” Edwards starts. The two share a laugh. “They’re going to hate me again when
I declare this — I already know it.”
“I would have been the player who could match up with MJ. That would have been me. I would have been the one guarding him, scoring points against him. I would have been that guy.”
“I can see that,” Jefferson responds. “That matchup has already occurred.”
Edwards has often been compared to a young Jordan — they both demonstrate similar athleticism, fearlessness, and confidence on the court. While it’s true that Jordan had secured an MVP award and consistently averaged over 30 points per game by the time he reached the same stage of his career as Edwards, some highlights of Edwards’ gameplay make the comparison tough to overlook.
“Some of the things he does make you think, ‘Wow, that’s something MJ would do,'” Jaden McDaniels remarks. He even touches on the jokes circulating online that liken Edwards to MJ’s son. “It’s like, ‘Bruh, you’re not escaping those allegations. You really do look like a little Michael Jordan.’ The way he soars to dunk on opponents… or when he pulls up for a jump shot, hanging in the air like, ‘Bruh, what are you doing?'”
Regarding the parallels drawn between Jefferson and Moss, Jefferson is quick to point out how much the game has evolved. “If you put Randy in our current scheme, he would have gone off,” he states. “They didn’t even throw the ball that often, and just look at the yardage Jerry Rice accumulated. It’s kind of alarming.”
“Playing 17, 18, 19 years in the NFL is something you rarely see,” Jefferson declares, clapping his hands together. “It’s going to be a challenge. But I’m aiming for it.”
This topic frequently arises during practice sessions between Jefferson and McCardell. McCardell, who played for 16 seasons in the NFL, seeks to pass on advice to Jefferson about how to make the game easier later in his career, especially when physical dominance wanes. “We discuss playing on for a long time and aiming to be one of the greats like Jerry,” McCardell said. “Because [Jefferson] loves playing football just like Jerry.”
It becomes evident as Jefferson and Edwards discuss their legacies: Despite their admiration for predecessors, both are inherently linked through their desire to carve their own paths.
“I believe that to follow in those footsteps, we need to do it our way,” Edwards states. ”We’re going to bring a little more swag to it.”
“We’ll add our own unique touch,” Jefferson adds. “A bit more style, a bit more flavor. I think our version will be even better — especially regarding how we wrap up our careers.”
The young talents assert that their photos will showcase more style, more flair, and more swag. “That’s what defines us,” Jefferson notes. “It’s the newcomers taking over,” Edwards remarks. Marcus Smith for ESPN
NOBODY SAW IT coming.
With a record of 5-1, the Vikings boast one of the top standings in the NFL, despite having low expectations heading into the season. Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins departed to the Falcons in the offseason, and his expected replacement, first-round selection J.J. McCarthy, suffered a season-ending injury during the preseason. Consequently, the Vikings turned to journeyman Sam Darnold, who was named a captain alongside Jefferson, who urged his new quarterback to embrace swagger. Darnold has responded by emerging as an unexpected MVP contender, not least because Jefferson has been sensational, scoring touchdowns in five of his team’s first six games.
“I must be a leader, the captain of the team,” Jefferson notes, having signed a four-year, $140 million extension in June. ”I need to ensure that the guys are prepared to head out there with the confidence to throw me the ball — even when I’m not completely open.”
“Hey, what did you say your quarterback’s name was?” Edwards inquires.
“Sam,” Jefferson replies.
“Don’t hesitate to throw my boy the ball, man,” Edwards advises, pointing at the camera. “Even if he has two defenders on him.”
Jefferson chuckles: “Oh, you don’t even need to tell him that.”
“I’m going to step up out there, man,” Edwards concludes.
“If you don’t throw him the ball …”
Jefferson believes that leading by example begins during practice. Alongside his close friend and teammate Trishton Jackson, he established a tradition known as “no-gloves Friday,” where they perform receiver drills without gloves to see who can manage the fewest drops. They often end up with red hands, particularly after working with Cousins.
“Some leaders just talk, but he’s different,” Jackson remarks. “He demonstrates through his actions.”
The Vikings are optimistic that their strong start will lead to their first playoff victory since 2019. Despite never having won a Super Bowl, the team boasts the highest winning percentage and the most playoff appearances among teams that have yet to secure the championship.
“The best part is that we’re not getting much attention,” Jefferson states. ”When you’re sneaking in for a quiet attack and they don’t see it coming — that’s the most exciting part.”
In a surprising move just before training camp, the Wolves stunned their fans by trading Karl-Anthony Towns, the four-time All-Star who had been with the franchise for nine years. Following a season in which they won 56 games—a franchise record second only to the highest win total—they now face greater expectations after reaching the Western Conference finals for only the second time in their history, the first being during the 2003-04 season when Garnett was named MVP.
“I feel like there’s going to be a lot more pressure on us,” Edwards comments regarding last season’s success. “When you perform at that level, you can’t afford to miss the playoffs or get eliminated in the first round. We need to grow up.”
“Last year, we could compete with anyone, but I struggled to close out games. Whether it was taking a shot or making an assist, this year, I need to be ready to finish games.”
Edwards has expressed that he lost a brother in Towns, but he recognizes that the league is a business. The franchise is now placing its trust in Edwards, who is beginning his first season under a five-year contract extension potentially worth $260 million. The Edwards era in Minnesota has officially commenced.
Since returning home with a gold medal from the Paris Olympics, his teammates have noticed a renewed focus from him. Edwards has been training at the team’s facility since mid-August, over a month before training camp, showcasing what he learned during his time in Europe. For instance, during a summer scrimmage, Conley was so amazed when Edwards executed a backdoor cut to the basket for an easy layup that he halted the game—he’s been encouraging Edwards to make those cuts for two years.
“He said, ‘Man, I’m telling you, playing USA Basketball required passing and cutting; it wasn’t like you got the ball every time,'” Conley recalls with a grin. “I’m just so proud of him. … I’ve never seen him so focused on the small details.”
This dedication is one reason Conley believes Edwards is prepared to become the face of the franchise.
“There’s a bit of naivety to it—he doesn’t know everything yet,” Conley notes. “This is new for him, being recognized as one of those key players and being in the spotlight. Despite that, he’s true to himself throughout. He doesn’t feel the need to change who he is to fit this role. So, I think it will come naturally to him because he’s the type to show up in a hoodie to a Netflix premiere.”
That’s simply Edwards’ style.
Jefferson and Edwards haven’t had the opportunity to connect since their August shoot, but Edwards assures that they will soon. Marcus Smith for ESPN
JEFFERSON BURSTS into laughter.
We’ve begun playing Uno, which, naturally, commenced with a lively debate about the rules: Continue drawing cards until a playable one appears. You can respond to a Draw 2 or Draw 4 by stacking another card, forcing the following player to draw double the amount.
After glancing at his hand and noticing a red No. 9 that marked the start of the game, Edwards inquires about a different rule, “Can we stack 6s on 9s and 9s on 6s?”
“What type …
“What kind of rules are those?” Jefferson questions. “I’ve never heard of that one before.”
Edwards argues that he didn’t play the game much during his childhood. On the other hand, Jefferson frequently played with his brothers, betting $1, or if they felt adventurous, making the losers do 10 pushups. ”I thought I dealt you a good hand,” Jefferson remarks.
“Nah, you just tried to give me a bunch of colors,” Edwards replies. He takes a card from the deck and checks it on the pile, “That’s a 9, right?”
Even though the rules state not to stack numbers, there comes a moment when Jefferson places down a set of 2s. At another time, Edwards decides he won’t draw cards if he has nothing to play.
“Aye, I’d rather cheat than repeat,” Edwards says with a grin. “Keep that in mind.” He places a Draw 4 card on Jefferson, who attempts to respond with a Draw 2.
“Nah, you can’t combine those, big dawg,” Edwards replies. “No way you’re allowed to do that, Jack.”
“Come on, you’re just making up your own rules,” Jefferson says with a sheepish grin as he starts drawing from the deck. “I had to come up with mine.”
Edwards switches the color to green, but I think I have him set up. I drop my Draw 4, call Uno, and confidently switch the color to yellow.
However, Edwards counters with another Draw 4. Uno. Eight cards drawn for Jefferson.
Wow.
“Wooooooww,” Jefferson exclaims.
I have no green cards in hand. So, I keep drawing and drawing and drawing. Edwards thinks this rule is ridiculous. “That’s the craziest way to play Uno I’ve ever witnessed.” I’m still on the hunt for a green card.
“You’re about to draw eight more, too,” Jefferson warns.
“Bruh, you can’t just keep drawing cards,” Edwards protests as I continue to come up short. I draw another 10 cards before I finally place a green card down.
“Uno out, man.” Naturally, Edwards is the victor. “I haven’t played Uno since Bruce Lee passed away, and look, I won.” It’s a quick card game, yet it ignites their competitive spirits. They discuss hanging out more often – at the very least, playing some video games together.
“I don’t play [NBA] 2K, but we can always play Madden,” Edwards offers.
“Why not 2K?” Jefferson asks.
“I’m not playing until I hit a 99,” Edwards responds, referencing his current overall rating of 94 in the NBA game.
“Straight up,” Jefferson laughs as they give each other a dap. ”I feel you.”
“After this year, who knows?” Edwards suggests.
This conversation subtly highlights that these young stars have yet to reach their full potential. As the day concludes, Jefferson and Edwards exchange autographs on each other’s jerseys. Jefferson takes home the black No. 5 Wolves jersey, while Edwards adds the No. 18 Vikings jersey to his collection.
“If you ever need a strong safety, just hit me up,” Edwards tells Jefferson.
“How will we know you’re serious?” Jefferson asks. ”When you take that first hit coming through the middle. You and whoever else.”
“Me and Derrick Henry,” Edwards replies with a deadpan face.
“WHAAAT?!” Jefferson reacts.
Amidst the lighthearted banter about who can excel in whose sport or who can compete across generations, it’s evident, as they walk off the set, what truly binds the two. There’s a reason they sought to recreate the iconic Moss-Edwards photo; it goes beyond tribute to the past. It reflects their ambition to forge their own legacy, aiming to be so outstanding that the next generation aspires to recreate their photo.
“Wherever I go, I want to leave a mark,” Jefferson shares with me. “Little kids look up to you and want to become the next big thing — the next great Anthony Edwards or the next remarkable Justin Jefferson.”
Video producers: Luis Aldea and Justin Bey. Video editor: Amanda C. Winkler. Wardrobe styling and grooming by Darnell Booker. Production by Bobbi Peacock and Franny Legge.
Anthony Edwards: Jacket, pants, and glasses by Adidas, shirt
Marni provides the ensemble, Prada delivers the boots, and AE5 Enterprises supplies the jewelry.
Justin Jefferson is styled in jeans, a shirt, and shoes from Amiri, complemented by Oakley sunglasses and jewelry from Lake Side Diamond.
Reimagining the Twin Cities Legacy: Anthony Edwards and Justin Jefferson’s Day of Competition and Camaraderie
Setting the Scene: The Twin Cities
The Twin Cities, known for their vibrant culture and rich sports history, have become a breeding ground for emerging athletic talent. Among the most notable figures are Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings. Both players are not just icons in their respective sports but also exemplify the spirit of competition and camaraderie that defines Minnesota’s athletic community. Their recent collaborative event has sparked interest and excitement among fans and aspiring athletes alike.
Event Overview: A Day of Competition and Camaraderie
On a sun-soaked Saturday, Edwards and Jefferson hosted an event that brought together fans, young athletes, and the local community. The day was filled with various activities aimed at promoting teamwork, physical fitness, and sportsmanship.
Key Highlights of the Event
- Skill Challenges: Edwards and Jefferson led a series of skill challenges, allowing participants to showcase their abilities in basketball and football.
- Q&A Sessions: Fans had the opportunity to ask questions about their favorite players’ journeys, training routines, and personal insights.
- Meet and Greet: Attendees enjoyed autographs and photos with these celebrated athletes, fostering a sense of connection.
- Community Service: Both stars committed a portion of the day to giving back, emphasizing the importance of community involvement.
Bridging the Gap Between Sports
While basketball and football may seem worlds apart, Edwards and Jefferson’s day underscored the common values shared by athletes in different sports. Both players emphasized the importance of hard work, dedication, and teamwork, which are essential for success in any athletic endeavor.
Shared Values Among Athletes
- Discipline: Both athletes stress the significance of maintaining a rigorous training schedule.
- Teamwork: Sports are inherently collaborative, and both Edwards and Jefferson spoke about the importance of working together to achieve goals.
- Resilience: Overcoming setbacks is crucial in sports, and both athletes have faced their fair share of challenges, inspiring others to persevere.
Benefits of Competitive Events for Young Athletes
Events like the one hosted by Edwards and Jefferson offer numerous benefits for young athletes, especially in the Twin Cities.
Physical Benefits
- Improved Fitness: Engaging in sports helps improve cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility.
- Skill Development: Participating in challenges allows young athletes to hone their skills in a fun environment.
Mental Benefits
- Boosted Confidence: Learning from established athletes can inspire confidence in young players.
- Goal Setting: Understanding the importance of setting and achieving goals is crucial for personal growth.
First-Hand Experiences: Voices from the Event
Attendees of the event shared their experiences, highlighting the impact of meeting their sports idols.
Testimonials
“Meeting Anthony Edwards was a dream come true! His energy is contagious, and I learned so much from the skill challenges!” – Emma, 15
“Justin Jefferson’s advice on teamwork really resonated with me. It was so inspiring to hear his journey!” – Jordan, 12
Case Studies: Impact on Local Sports Community
The collaboration between Edwards and Jefferson is just one example of how local athletes can inspire the community. Similar events have shown significant positive impacts on youth sports programs in the Twin Cities.
Successful Initiatives
| Event | Year | Participants | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Youth Football Camp | 2021 | 300+ | Increased participation in local leagues by 20% |
| Basketball Skills Clinic | 2022 | 250+ | Improved skills and teamwork among participants |
Practical Tips for Aspiring Athletes
Whether you’re a budding basketball player or a future football star, there are practical steps you can take to enhance your skills and make the most out of events like the one hosted by Edwards and Jefferson.
Essential Tips for Athletes
- Practice Regularly: Dedicate time each week to work on your skills.
- Stay Positive: Maintain a positive mindset, even during tough times.
- Network: Attend local events and connect with other athletes and coaches.
- Learn from the Best: Watch games and highlight reels of professional athletes to understand advanced techniques.
Final Thoughts: The Legacy Continues
The collaborative efforts of Anthony Edwards and Justin Jefferson signify a powerful movement within the Twin Cities’ sports community. By reimagining competition and camaraderie, these athletes not only inspire the next generation but also strengthen the bonds that unite sports lovers in Minnesota.
