Thu May 08 23:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Warriors Coach’s Tough Love Helped Mold Timberwolves Star Anthony Edwards
**Minneapolis, MN** – A pre-draft workout critique from Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr served as a pivotal turning point in the career of Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards, shaping the player he is today. Ahead of their Western Conference Semifinals matchup, both Edwards and Kerr recounted their memorable encounter from 2020.
During Edwards’ pre-draft workout with the Warriors, Kerr expressed his disappointment with the young guard’s effort, stating he wouldn’t select Edwards first overall if given the chance. Kerr felt Edwards lacked intensity and compared his work ethic unfavorably to that of Golden State’s stars Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and Klay Thompson. This frank assessment, delivered during the workout and reinforced at a subsequent dinner, stung Edwards but ultimately ignited a fire within him.
Edwards admitted to initially believing he was working hard, but Kerr’s words spurred him to dramatically increase his training intensity. He described subsequently becoming “a madman in the gym,” dedicating himself to rigorous training sessions.
Kerr, reflecting on the incident, confirmed his initial assessment of Edwards’ lackluster workout but also praised his subsequent improvement. A second workout two weeks later showcased a marked improvement in Edwards’ intensity and skill, leaving Kerr impressed by his explosiveness and talent.
While the Warriors ultimately didn’t draft Edwards (the Timberwolves selected him first overall), the experience forged a respect between player and coach. Kerr, who later coached Edwards in the Paris Olympics, now faces the challenge of devising a game plan to contain the blossoming superstar in their upcoming playoff series. The encounter serves as a testament to the power of constructive criticism and Edwards’ remarkable transformation into one of the NBA’s most exciting young players.
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