Timberwolves’ Bold Choice Sparks Franchise Revival
The Minnesota Timberwolves’ decision to select Anthony Edwards as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft is now regarded as a monumental success. Yet, the path to that selection was anything but straightforward. As the Timberwolves contemplated their options, they faced tough decisions between Edwards, the promising big man James Wiseman, and the dynamic point guard LaMelo Ball. At that time, then-general manager Gersson Rosas was tasked with a choice that would shape the franchise’s future.
The Deciding Factor
As it turns out, a pivotal moment in the pre-draft process influenced the Timberwolves’ ultimate decision. According to insights shared by Jon Krawczynski, a notable journalist, during a live taping of The Zach Lowe Show, the franchise’s evaluation of Ball took a surprising turn during an interview. Krawczynski recounted that Ball’s performance in this meeting raised red flags for the Timberwolves’ brass.
When asked about his aspirations post-basketball, Ball provided a response that left an impression. Instead of discussing typical career paths or ambitions within the sport, he expressed a desire to become the President of the United States. Krawczynski remarked, “Why did they pick Edwards? A million different reasons in their evaluation. But one of them was that LaMelo did not interview very well.”
The Aftermath of the Decision
This interview revelation, coupled with the Timberwolves’ confidence in Edwards, solidified the franchise’s choice. Since then, Edwards has blossomed into a superstar, earning two All-NBA Second Team selections and making three All-Star appearances. His emergence has made him one of the most recognizable faces in the league, and he has played a crucial role in leading the Timberwolves to consecutive Western Conference Finals appearances.
In contrast, LaMelo Ball, despite winning the Rookie of the Year award and making an All-Star team during the 2022 season, has yet to guide the Charlotte Hornets to playoff success. His time on the court has been marred by injuries, limiting his impact on the team.
Reflections on a Franchise Turning Point
Krawczynski’s reflections on this draft choice highlight how a seemingly innocuous interview can have lasting implications. “And so, that goes down and lo and behold, Anthony Edwards is the number one pick. And now here they are contending for Western Conference championships every year,” he noted, showcasing the ripple effects of that pivotal moment in Timberwolves history.
As the Timberwolves continue their pursuit of success, the decision to draft Edwards stands as a testament to the importance of thorough evaluations and the unpredictable nature of player interviews in shaping the future of a franchise.
