Anthony Edwards Captures Kobe Bryant All-Star MVP, Sets Goal of Matching Legend’s Four Awards
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INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards claimed the Kobe Bryant Most Valuable Player trophy at the 75th NBA All-Star Game on Feb. 15, guiding Team USA Stars to victory over Team USA Stripes and the World Team at Intuit Dome.
The 24-year-old finished the three-team showcase with 32 points and nine rebounds, helping restore a competitive edge to an exhibition that had been criticized in recent years for lackluster effort. During the postgame ceremony, Edwards said he hopes to reach the benchmark set by the late Los Angeles Lakers icon.
“Hopefully I can get three more trophies like Kobe Bryant,” he told reporters, referencing Bryant’s record-tying four All-Star MVPs. Only Bryant and Bob Pettit have won the award four times, and Bryant’s 18 All-Star selections trail only LeBron James and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. The NBA named the honor after Bryant in 2020.
Edwards’ performance drew praise for its blend of athleticism and assertiveness—traits often associated with Bryant. His efforts powered the Stars to the inaugural title under the league’s new three-team format.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Dončić, still easing back from a hamstring injury, logged brief minutes for the Stars and said the muscle “felt good,” adding that he wanted to suit up for the fans who voted him into the game.
Edwards’ first All-Star MVP adds another milestone to a résumé that already includes two All-Star selections early in his fourth NBA season.
Source: Lakers Nation