Anthony Edwards, widely known as “Ant-Man,” has quickly emerged as one of the most promising talents in the NBA. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated to be around $40 million, a testament to his remarkable basketball skills, growing endorsements, and smart financial decisions. Drafted first overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2020, Edwards wasted no time establishing himself as a star on the court, demonstrating extraordinary athleticism, scoring prowess, and leadership. His contract extension in 2023, worth $260 million over five years, has secured his place among the highest-paid players in the league. Additionally, Edwards has expanded his wealth through major endorsement deals, notably with Adidas, and smart investments in real estate and other ventures.
Early Life and Basketball Beginnings
Anthony Edwards was born on August 5, 2001, in Atlanta, Georgia. Growing up in the Oakland City neighborhood of Atlanta, Edwards faced many challenges, including the deaths of both his mother and grandmother, who passed away due to cancer when he was a teenager. Despite these hardships, he found solace in sports. Initially, Edwards was more interested in football but transitioned to basketball as he realized his natural talent on the court. His raw athleticism, scoring ability, and competitive spirit quickly made him a standout prospect.
In high school, Edwards dominated the basketball scene. He attended Therrell High School in Atlanta before transferring to Holy Spirit Preparatory School. By his senior year, he was ranked as one of the top prospects in the country, eventually committing to play college basketball at the University of Georgia. In his lone season at Georgia, Edwards averaged 19.1 points per game and solidified his position as the top prospect in the 2020 NBA Draft.
NBA Draft and Rookie Contract
In 2020, Anthony Edwards was selected as the first overall pick in the NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves. This was the beginning of his professional career and also marked the start of his financial ascent. As the No. 1 overall pick, Edwards signed a four-year rookie contract worth $44.3 million, with an average annual salary of $11 million. Rookie contracts are structured according to a pre-determined scale set by the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement, and Edwards’ deal was one of the largest available for a first-year player.
While the money from his rookie contract was a significant contributor to his early wealth, it was only the beginning of Edwards’ earnings. His performance during his rookie year established him as a player to watch, and it wasn’t long before other revenue streams began to materialize.
Rise to Stardom: Performance on the Court
Anthony Edwards wasted no time proving his worth on the basketball court. In his rookie season (2020-2021), he averaged 19.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game, earning him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team. His high-flying dunks and scoring ability quickly made him a fan favorite, and comparisons to other NBA greats like Dwyane Wade and Donovan Mitchell began to surface.
Edwards’ star continued to rise in his sophomore season (2021-2022). He improved his scoring average to 21.3 points per game and became the youngest player in NBA history to record 10 three-pointers in a single game. By his third season, he was the clear leader of the Timberwolves and played a crucial role in helping the team reach the playoffs. His clutch performances, highlighted by his fearlessness and confidence, helped solidify his reputation as one of the league’s brightest young stars.
The Massive Contract Extension
In July 2023, Anthony Edwards signed a five-year, $260 million contract extension with the Minnesota Timberwolves, which was one of the largest contracts in NBA history at the time. This deal was a testament to his value not only as a player but also as the face of the Timberwolves franchise. The contract, which averages $52 million per year, dramatically increased Edwards’ earning potential and placed him among the highest-paid players in the league.
The deal is structured in a way that includes incentives for making All-NBA teams and other performance-related bonuses, meaning Edwards’ actual earnings could be even higher if he continues to perform at an elite level.
Endorsements and Off-Court Ventures
While his NBA salary forms the bulk of his wealth, Anthony Edwards has also capitalized on several endorsement opportunities. In 2022, he signed a multi-year endorsement deal with Adidas, one of the largest sports apparel companies in the world. As part of the deal, Adidas launched Edwards’ first signature shoe, the AE1, in 2023. The shoe was an instant success, particularly among younger fans who gravitated towards Edwards’ charisma and unique playing style. His partnership with Adidas is reported to be worth millions of dollars annually, with the potential for even more earnings through royalties and bonuses tied to the performance of his signature products.
In addition to Adidas, Edwards has also worked with several other high-profile brands. His growing popularity has made him an attractive figure for companies looking to tap into the NBA’s young fanbase. While specific figures for these deals are not always disclosed, it is estimated that his endorsement earnings add several million dollars per year to his overall income.
Real Estate and Investments
Like many athletes, Anthony Edwards has made strategic real estate investments to diversify his portfolio. In 2022, he purchased a luxury home in the suburbs of Minneapolis, valued at around $3 million. The property boasts state-of-the-art amenities, including a basketball court, swimming pool, and a home gym, reflecting Edwards’ growing status and lifestyle.
Beyond real estate, Edwards has also shown an interest in technology and media investments. While details about his investment portfolio are largely kept private, there have been reports of him exploring opportunities in tech startups and entertainment ventures. As a young player with a long career ahead of him, these investments could provide additional financial security and growth in the future.
Philanthropy and Giving Back
Despite his growing wealth, Anthony Edwards has remained committed to giving back to his community. His upbringing in Atlanta, where he faced numerous hardships, has inspired him to use his platform to make a positive impact. Edwards has been involved in various charitable initiatives, particularly those focused on youth education and sports programs. He has donated to several organizations that provide resources for underprivileged children, and he often speaks about the importance of mentorship and staying focused in life.
In 2023, Edwards launched the “Ant-Man Foundation,” a non-profit organization aimed at helping children in underserved communities gain access to sports and educational opportunities. Through the foundation, Edwards has organized basketball camps, mentorship programs, and scholarship funds, all designed to uplift young people and provide them with tools for success.
The Influence of Family
One of the most significant influences in Anthony Edwards’ life has been his family, particularly his older sister, Antoinette. After the death of their mother and grandmother, Antoinette stepped up to take care of her younger siblings, and Edwards has often spoken about the vital role she played in his upbringing. Their close bond continues to this day, with Antoinette managing some aspects of Edwards’ career and business ventures.
Edwards has been very vocal about the importance of family and how their support helped him overcome many obstacles in life. He frequently attributes his work ethic and determination to the lessons taught by his mother and grandmother. Their memory continues to motivate him, and he has even dedicated parts of his success to honoring them, including the design of his signature shoe, which features details that pay homage to his late family members.
