Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2026 NBA All-Star Game after leading Team USA Stars to the championship in the event’s new tournament format. Edwards scored a total of 32 points across three games, helping his team secure the win at the Intuit Dome.
The game featured a round-robin setup with Team USA Stars, Team USA Stripes, and Team World. Team Stars defeated Team Stripes 47-21 in the final. Edwards contributed 11 points in the first game against Team Stripes, 13 in an overtime win against Team World, and eight in the final, along with nine rebounds and three assists overall. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver presented Edwards with the Kobe Bryant Trophy during the post-game ceremony.
In his post-game interview, Edwards expressed surprise at receiving the award but highlighted his strong play throughout the event. He shot 13-of-22 from the field and 6-of-15 from three-point range in 26 minutes of action.
Anthony Edwards’ admiration for Barack Obama
Anthony Edwards shared that former President Barack Obama, who attended the game, provided extra motivation for his performance. “He’s my favorite person in the world,” Edwards said of Obama. “We was kicking it yesterday. Me and him, I had a great time yesterday. So, uh I told him I was going to put on the show for him.”
“He’s my favorite person in the world.”
Ant talks about putting on a show in front of President Barack Obama! pic.twitter.com/ALSHRJxRVP
— NBA (@NBA) February 16, 2026
Obama was courtside with his wife, Michelle Obama, and received a standing ovation from the crowd before the game. He joined the broadcast for a few minutes, where he commented on the improved level of play in the All-Star Game and made light remarks about commentator Reggie Miller.
This was not the first interaction between Edwards and Obama. In a previous meeting, Edwards told Obama and LeBron James, “Y’all better stand down, I’m the truth.”
Anthony Edwards’ efforts helped Team Stars advance through the tournament. Tyrese Maxey added nine points in the final, while Chet Holmgren contributed eight. The win marked a successful debut for the NBA’s revamped All-Star format, which aimed to increase competitiveness.
The 24-year-old Edwards, in his fourth All-Star appearance, continues to establish himself as a key player in the league. This MVP award adds to his growing list of achievements with the Timberwolves.
