Thursday night’s Minnesota Timberwolves victory against the Memphis Grizzlies featured an off-the-backboard alley-oop that NBA player Anthony Edwards could have easily scored a highlight reel for himself.
After witnessing Edwards’ spectacular dunk, league MVP-winning player Joel Embiid tried to imitate it during the 76ers’ victory over the Orlando Magic the following day.
Embiid dribbled the ball close to the free throw line in the second quarter of Friday’s game. He threw it toward the backboard, caught it midair, and finished with a powerful dunk.
In addition to throwing the ball at the glass from the foul line, the 22-year-old Edwards showcased his remarkable athleticism by slamming the ball with both hands.
Even though it wasn’t his first attempt at a personal alley-oop, Embiid subsequently acknowledged that it was a tribute to one of his favorite NBA players.
“I will not be dishonest. Of course, I’ve done it previously. It’s not the initial instance. “I enjoy pushing myself,” Embiid remarked. “Among my top three favorite players in the league is Anthony Edwards. Up there is where he is. I mean, such a great guy. Last night, I saw it. I thought to myself, ‘Well, if he can do it, why can’t I?’ I think he’s fantastic.”
Embiid finished Friday’s game with 36 points, extending his streak of games with 30 or more points to 19. The Sixers’ star center is averaging a league-best 35.1 points per game this season.
Edwards is averaging 26.1 points and 5.4 rebounds in 38 games this season. The 2020 No. 1 overall draft pick was named to the NBA All-Star team for the first time in his career last year.