NBA legend Magic Johnson didn’t hold back in his response to Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards after the young player took a controversial dig at the skill level of NBA players from the 1980s and 90s. Edwards, who recently spoke with the Wall Street Journal, expressed skepticism about the abilities of players from that era, saying he wasn’t too impressed with anyone other than Michael Jordan.
Johnson, a five-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers and one of the most iconic figures in basketball history, responded sharply when informed of Edwards’ comments by ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith during an event at Yaamava Resort & Casino. Johnson’s retort was both pointed and dismissive: “I never respond to a guy who’s never won a championship,” he said, drawing laughter from the audience. “He didn’t win a college championship, I don’t even know if he won a high school championship.”
"I never respond to a guy who's never won a championship… He didn't win a college championship, I don't even know if he won a high school championship."
Magic Johnson didn't hold back while responding to Anthony Edwards' comments 👀😳
(via https://t.co/gnCFAy8D5B / IG) pic.twitter.com/8KUrvm4vZw
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) August 25, 2024
Edwards’ original comments to the Wall Street Journal suggested that he didn’t believe the 90s era of basketball was particularly skillful, except for Jordan. “They say it was tougher back then than it is now, but I don’t think anybody had skill back then,” Edwards remarked. “Michael Jordan was the only one that really had skill, you know what I mean? So that’s why when they saw Kobe [Bryant], they were like, ‘Oh, my God.’ But now everybody has skill.”
These statements from Edwards have stirred up some controversy in the basketball community, particularly among those who remember the highly competitive and physical nature of the NBA during the 90s. Johnson, who played a significant role in defining that era, was clearly unimpressed with Edwards’ take.
Edwards is coming off an impressive season, averaging a career-high 25.9 points per game and helping lead the Timberwolves to the Western Conference Finals. Despite his individual success, Edwards has yet to capture an NBA title—a fact Johnson was quick to point out in his response.
As one of the most celebrated champions in NBA history, Johnson’s words carry significant weight. His critique serves as a reminder that while the game may have evolved, the contributions and skills of past players should not be dismissed so easily. The exchange also highlights the ongoing debate about the differences between eras in the NBA and how today’s stars view the legends who paved the way.
For Edwards, who is still in the early stages of his career, the comments from Johnson may serve as motivation—or at the very least, a lesson in respecting the history of the game.
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