In the heart of Minneapolis, a new era is dawning. NBA sensation Anthony Edwards and NFL superstar Justin Jefferson are poised to take the Minnesota sports world by storm, following in the legendary footsteps of Kevin Garnett and Randy Moss. The rising stars recently recreated the iconic 2000 magazine cover featuring KG and Moss, signaling a passing of the torch and the arrival of Minnesota’s next great sports duo.
A Friendship Forged in Greatness
Edwards and Jefferson, both southern-born phenoms drafted in 2020, quickly bonded over their shared journey to the Twin Cities. Despite the challenges of moving to a new, colder climate amidst the upheaval of 2020, the two found solace in each other’s meteoric rise to the top of their respective leagues.
I had to tap in and be a fan of him from up close. That’s when it all started for real.
– Justin Jefferson on his friendship with Anthony Edwards
The duo’s competitive spirit shines through in everything they do, from trading highlight-reel plays to friendly banter about who would dominate in each other’s sport. Edwards, a former youth football standout, insists he could excel in the NFL, while Jefferson, a talented hooper in his own right, believes he could hold his own in the NBA with proper training.
Channeling the Legends
Both Edwards and Jefferson grew up idolizing Garnett and Moss, studying their film and trying to emulate their iconic plays. Now, as they recreate the legendary magazine shoot, the young stars are acutely aware of the legacy they aim to build upon.
KG, the best Minnesota basketball player of all time. And right now, I’m trying to go for that. And Randy, I mean, I like [Adrian Peterson], too, but Randy’s the best. JJ trying to go for that.
– Anthony Edwards on the legacy of Kevin Garnett and Randy Moss
Yet, even as they pay homage to the past, Edwards and Jefferson are determined to blaze their own trail, infusing their unique style and swagger into Minnesota’s sports culture.
We’re going to be a little more swaggy. Put our own lil’ sauce to it, little bit more style, little bit more flavor. I think ours is going to be a little bit better — especially the way we end our careers.
– Justin Jefferson on creating their own legacy
Unexpected Dominance
As the 2024-25 seasons unfold, both the Timberwolves and Vikings are surpassing expectations, thanks in large part to the leadership and dominance of their young superstars. Jefferson, fresh off a record-breaking contract extension, has emerged as an MVP candidate, while Edwards, now the undisputed face of the Wolves franchise, is laser-focused on delivering a championship to the city that has embraced him.
I just want to bring a championship to Minnesota. The people are too good here. The fan base is too good. It’s been a long time coming.
– Justin Jefferson on his goals for Minnesota
With both young stars locked into long-term deals, the future has never been brighter for Minnesota sports fans. As Edwards and Jefferson continue to push each other to new heights, both on and off the field, the Twin Cities can rest assured that their legacy is in good hands.
If I can, I’m trying to be here for my whole career. I ain’t trying to go nowhere.
– Anthony Edwards on his commitment to Minnesota
So, as the new era dawns in Minneapolis, one thing is certain: the Anthony Edwards and Justin Jefferson show is just getting started, and the sports world better be ready for Minnesota’s new dynamic duo.
