The NBA has spent years searching for its next unmistakable standard-bearer. As the league transitions from one era to another, the debate over who will carry the mantle only intensifies. Amidst this, the All-Star Weekend 2026 added fresh fuel to that conversation.
Why? All thanks to one electrifying performance during the revamped format that left analysts buzzing. It even prompted one of Stephen A. Smith’s boldest declarations yet.
Stephen A. Smith Makes His “Face of the NBA” Pick
Appearing on First Take, Stephen A. Smith weighed in on the discussion around the league’s next flag bearer. He did not hesitate to involve Anthony Edwards in the conversation.
“[Victor] Wembanyama, the brother, is special. But that damn Ant-Man, he is something to behold. He is Jordan-esque. He hasn’t won yet. That’s why we can’t say that,” Smith said. “But his game the purity of it, the handles, the shot, the athleticism, the swag. He don’t believe it, but his boy Stephen A is going to tell it to him. You got it all.”
While many analysts also argued that Victor Wembanyama has the energy to be the face of the league, Smith insisted that Edwards would take the lead here. He went a step further, comparing Ant-Man’s relatability and appeal to Stephen Curry.
“A lot of people can’t relate to somebody 7-foot-5. We can never do that. We can’t be that. It’s just an anomaly,” Smith added. “Ant-Man is just like Steph, the babyface assassin. Damn, look at his size, and he’s doing what he’s doing… Ant-Man is going to be the face of the NBA. Mark it down.”
Smith isn’t wrong. Edwards, at 6-foot-4, plays above the rim yet looks physically attainable to fans, much like Curry reshaped perceptions of size and superstardom. Plus, he displayed explosive energy during the All-Star weekend. He scored 32 total points across three games in the revamped round-robin format, helping Team Stars secure a 47-21 win in the final. His shot-making stood out late against the World All-Stars and early in the championship matchup.
Brian Windhorst Adds Fuel to the Fire
Stephen A. wasn’t alone in his praise. Brian Windhorst echoed the sentiment on ESPN, highlighting Edwards’ complete profile.
“This guy kind of does everything you could want from a superstar,” Windhorst said. “He plays both ends of the court, he has fantastic dunks, he’s a great 3-point shooter, he has great personality, he’s been a winner.”
Edwards’ résumé supports the case. He has led the Minnesota Timberwolves to back-to-back Western Conference Finals appearances, a historic stretch for the franchise, and is averaging a career-high 29.3 points this season on efficient shooting splits.
While the championship box remains unchecked, fans believe it will come sooner than expected. Even Smith acknowledged that. But in terms of box-office appeal, charisma, and highlight-reel dominance, he believes the decision is already made.
If Edwards keeps trending upward, the debate may not last much longer
