ESPN (DR) / The Ringer (DR)

Since his arrival in the United States in 2023, Victor Wembanyama has been presented as the future of the NBA, as a talent capable of competing with Michael Jordan and LeBron James.

But according to Stephen A. Smith, the Frenchman cannot become the face of the league.

The All-Star Weekend was an opportunity for the best players on the planet to spend time together, get to know each other, but also answer questions from media from around the world.

For example, the debate around the future face of the NBA was brought up, and it was Anthony Edwards who gave the most viral answer.

He doesn’t care about becoming the headliner, he is ready to give way to Victor Wembanyama.

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The Timberwolves guard speaks to reporters with a naturalness that sometimes earns him fines, and he doesn’t plan on changing to fit the mold created by LeBron James and Stephen Curry over the years. But Stephen A. Smith doesn’t agree with Ant Man’s approach:

Stephen A. Smith vs. Wemby as the face of the NBA

I don’t think a foreign player can become the face of the NBA. I know that players are icons around the world, that their popularity is international, but basketball is an American sport.

So for me, the face of the league has to resonate strongly in the United States. If Americans don’t recognize themselves in the headliner, then America will no longer be interested in the NBA.

My wish is that Anthony Edwards changes his mind in the future. He’s my favorite player along with Stephen Curry.

I didn’t fall in love with his game because of the dunks, but because of his attitude in the series against the Suns in the last playoffs.

He talked without pressure with his idol Kevin Durant, he attacked him. That’s the face.

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Americans are patriotic, Stephen A. Smith knows it, and in his eyes, that’s reason enough not to make a foreigner like Victor Wembanyama the face of the NBA.

The Spurs pivot may carry important values, express himself with ease in front of the cameras, he will not succeed in captivating the audience across the Atlantic.

In any case, that’s what the famous ESPN journalist thinks, who campaigns for Anthony Edwards.

At a time when audiences are declining, it will be important for Adam Silver to make the right choice.

Without a strong superstar who generates audiences, the NBA could sink into an even deeper crisis.

Many NBA players believe that Victor Wembanyama will be the most likely to take up the torch after LeBron James, Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant.

But beware, the American public could be reluctant.