Barack Obama And Anthony Edwards Got Together To Play Hoops. Naturally, Trash Talk Happened

Anthony Edwards is a prolific smack-talker. Whether it’s a towering figure or a once-in-a-lifetime scorer that’s in front of him, Edwards lets anyone and everyone get an earful whenever he steps on the hardcourt.

What if Ant-Man’s opponent for the day is a former President of the United States? No difference, really.

The Minnesota Timberwolves star was kind enough to participate in an ad featuring none other than Barack Obama. With the Obama Presidential Center set to open this summer, the 44th U.S. President decided to lean in on NBA star power by showcasing his unique relationship with Edwards in a four-minute promotional clip.

“Unique relationship,” of course, refers to the abundance of trash talk that typically ensues whenever Obama and Edwards are in the same room together.

The clip opens with Obama receiving a series of text messages while he’s at a video shoot. The messages are from Edwards, who calls the former head of state “scared” and challenges him to “come thru.”

Leaving the shoot behind, Obama pulls up to Edwards’ residence and tests the mettle of the four-time All-Star. In between playing a game of HORSE, recalling the rules of “Connect Four,” and busting out some ping pong rackets, Obama and Edwards try to outduel each other in a skill they’re both known for: the gift of gab.

“I was making jump shots…” Obama began. “Before I was born! I already know,” Edwards said, cutting off the punchline of one of the most powerful men in recent history. Not to be outdone, Obama improvised: “Before you were even thought of.”

Later, when Obama asked the six-year pro if he’d ever put up a bank shot, Edwards bragged, “The bank’s always open for me.”

Though all of this takes place in the context of an advertisement, there’s no denying that the banter between the two men is organic. Ever since Edwards told Obama that he’s “the truth” during Team USA’s 2024 training camp (a moment captured in the Netflix documentary “Court of Gold”), fans have been fascinated at the dynamic between a hoops-loving former president and an up-and-coming Olympian.

The clip doesn’t show who won the game of HORSE, but it appears to have gotten its message across. The Obama Presidential Center, a Chicago-based facility described on Obama.org as “a cultural institution that aims to inspire, empower, and connect people to bring change home,” is opening in a matter of months.

Obama, who’s used to getting the final word, made sure to clarify one particular detail. “I am proud that we’re opening the Obama Presidential Center this summer to all visitors. Even Anthony Edwards.”