Anthony Edwards might be one of the brightest young stars in the NBA, but he’s making it clear he doesn’t want to be the face of the league. That stance, however, isn’t sitting well with Carmelo Anthony. The former NBA star had some strong words for Edwards, questioning how he can turn down the responsibility while still enjoying all the perks that come with it. And Melo didn’t hold back.

“ANT CAN’T REJECT TO BE THE NBA’S FACE!” Melo fired off during a discussion about Edwards’ recent comments. He argued that being the face of the league isn’t something players get to pick and choose, it’s something that comes with success, whether they want it or not. If Ant truly wants to reject the role, Melo says, he’d have to go all the way, no commercials, no endorsements, no brand deals.

That’s where things get tricky. Edwards, despite his reluctance to carry the league’s image, has already secured major deals with brands like Sprite and Adidas. Melo pointed out the contradiction, questioning how someone can shy away from the spotlight while still signing contracts that put them front and center in marketing campaigns. To him, it doesn’t add up.

But Melo didn’t stop there. He pushed even further, saying something that some believe could land him in hot water. While he didn’t outright dismiss Ant’s humility, he made it clear this isn’t about personal preference. The NBA needs a face, and whether Edwards likes it or not, he’s already in that conversation. It’s a role that requires stepping up, not stepping back.

So, where does this leave Edwards? For now, he seems content letting others fight over who should carry the league’s image. But as his career continues to skyrocket, the question remains can he really avoid the inevitable, or is Melo right in saying that, at some point, he’ll have to own it?