In a thrilling NBA Christmas Day game on December 25, 2025, Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves made headlines not only for his impressive scoring but also for a controversial attempt to disrupt Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets during a crucial moment. Edwards, who had boldly predicted a 30-point performance, delivered with a remarkable 44 points. However, his actions in the final moments left fans divided over sportsmanship.
After trailing by as many as 16 points, the Timberwolves rallied late in the fourth quarter. With just 1.1 seconds left in regulation, Edwards hit a dramatic three-pointer to tie the game at 115, sending it into overtime. The decisive shot showcased his talent, but the game would take a turn that ignited debate among fans.
High Stakes and High Drama
The overtime period began with Edwards leading the Timberwolves on a 9-0 run. However, the Nuggets quickly retaliated. Tensions escalated when Rudy Gobert picked up his sixth foul, resulting in his ejection and sending Jokic to the free-throw line. In an apparent effort to throw off Jokic’s focus, Edwards made physical contact with the star center, prompting Jokic to express his frustration to the referees.
Edwards, appearing unbothered by the incident, feigned innocence. This moment sparked a flurry of reactions on social media, with responses ranging from accusations of “sore loser activities” to defenses claiming it was simply “classic mind games.”
One user suggested that Edwards should have received a technical foul for his actions, while others defended him, stating he was merely trying to disrupt Jokic’s routine at the free-throw line.
Controversy Leads to Ejection
The game took another dramatic turn when frustration bubbled over for Edwards, resulting in two technical fouls with just 21 seconds remaining. With the Nuggets leading 133-130, this ejection proved costly for the Timberwolves. The Nuggets capitalized on the situation, ultimately winning the match 142-138.
Edwards’ actions and the resulting ejection highlight the intense competitive spirit often seen in the NBA. As the Timberwolves continue to pursue success this season, fans will undoubtedly keep a close eye on Edwards’ future performances, especially in high-pressure situations.
The incident has reignited discussions about sportsmanship in professional basketball. While some fans view such tactics as part of the game, others argue for a more respectful approach. Regardless, what remains clear is that Edwards’ bold prediction and performance were overshadowed by the controversy surrounding his actions at the free-throw line.
