Anthony Edwards Jabs at LeBron James and Jaylen Brown in New Adidas Ad

Adidas Takes a Swipe at the NBA's Big Moves

When Anthony Edwards stepped into the spotlight for his latest Adidas campaign, it wasn't just about showcasing his new sneakers. It was also a bold way of engaging with the big-picture narrative of the NBA offseason — specifically, the moves that shaped this summer's landscape.

The ad dropped Thursday morning and featured the Minnesota Timberwolves star delivering a series of wryly delivered jokes at the expense of two major figures in the league: LeBron James and Jaylen Brown, who were both part of the offseason's most talked-about roster moves. And while it might have been a light-hearted moment, it wasn't lost on fans and analysts that Edwards' jokes carried a subtle edge.

"We ain't gonna play it safe. Speaking of old-school, you see where big dog ended up? He was gonna join me in Minnesota. But I guess his knees couldn't handle the cold weather," Edwards said, referencing LeBron's decision to join the Philadelphia 76ers instead of staying in Minnesota.

Edwards' jab at LeBron — and his implication that James didn't make it to Minnesota because he “couldn't handle the cold” — is a nod to the city's notorious winter. But it also serves as an indirect critique of what some perceived as James' cautious approach this offseason, especially after his dramatic decision-making process.

The LeBron Decision: A Roller Coaster in the Making

LeBron's signing with the 76ers was a long-anticipated move that came after a tumultuous period for both him and his agent, Rich Paul. The decision reportedly involved an emotional roller coaster that lasted well into July — a reflection of how high-stakes these kinds of choices are for the veteran.

But what was perhaps more striking about the decision, at least from a narrative standpoint, was the fact that it wasn't just about finding the best fit. It was about legacy, opportunity, and a desire to play in a new environment. And Edwards' ad seems to take a playful shot at that very decision.

"We know why he really made that decision. Philly got some of the best barbers in the world. Between him and ol' boy from Boston, they gonna have a lotta enhancements going on in the locker room," Edwards said, referencing Brown's well-known hair enhancement spray, which had become a minor talking point last season.

Edwards vs. the Competition

But Edwards didn't stop there. He also turned his attention to LaMelo Ball, who is set to join him on the Timberwolves roster for the 2026-27 season.

"They brought my twin to the Twin Cities. We've been working out together and doing all types of things. But one thing we ain't doing is carpooling if he driving," Edwards joked, referencing Ball's famously erratic driving style — a running joke among fans and players alike.

And while that line might have been a playful jab at Ball's reputation, it also speaks to the new dynamics of Minnesota's roster. As the team looks to build on last season's progress, the addition of Ball adds a layer of energy and unpredictability that Edwards clearly relishes.

The ad didn't just stop there. Edwards also tossed a subtle shot at Jalen Brunson, whose father, Rick Brunson, is an assistant coach for the New York Knicks. "If you the court against me, anybody can get it. Even your daddy," he said, clearly suggesting that even family ties won't shield players from a brutal game.

The Verdict: A Fresh Perspective on NBA Dynamics

What's fascinating about this ad isn't just its humor — it's how it reflects the shifting power dynamics in the league. With LeBron James and his legacy now wrapped up with the 76ers, and with new stars like Edwards and Ball joining forces in Minnesota, the conversation has shifted from who might be the next big thing to how those things are shaping up.

Edwards' ability to weave personal humor into broader NBA commentary is a skill that has become more and more evident over the past few seasons. He's not just a scorer; he's also a storyteller, someone who uses his platform not only for his own growth but for the narrative of the league as a whole.

And with the season set to begin in just a few weeks, this ad feels like more than just promotion — it's an appetizer for what could be a wild and exciting campaign ahead. Whether it's LeBron, Ball, or even someone else entirely who comes out on top in that first matchup between Minnesota and Philadelphia, one thing is certain: Anthony Edwards is ready to make his presence known.

Looking Ahead

With the January 16th matchup against the 76ers set to be a prime opportunity for Edwards to take his licks — both literal and figurative — we're likely to see more of this kind of playful, competitive energy from him in the coming months.

The ad's message was clear: Edwards isn't just here to play ball. He's here to make a statement.