The Wemby-Ant rivalry deserves respect no matter how much Minnesota sabotages it

ESPN dropped a top 10 list of rivalries to watch for the 2026-27 season a few days ago. The list had fine choices throughout. I'm not here to criticize it. The Spurs-Thunder was second, and Victor Wembanyama vs. Nikola Jokic was eighth. I'd just like to introduce an 11th option: The Alien vs. Ant-Man.

Anthony Edwards vs. Wemby produces some extremely compelling television. It's not even just about their play on the floor. There's so much respect between them that it's a joy to hear them talk about one another. Though if you think Minnesota will take a step back next season, I can see why you might leave this matchup off the list, and Minny has nobody to blame for that perspective but themselves.

Wembanyama and Anthony Edwards have already given us classics

Spurs vs. Timberwolves isn't hypothetical. We saw what was happening when these two teams met last season. In the Western Conference semifinals, the series went six games before San Antonio pulled it out. Wembanyama averaged 20 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 blocks across that stretch. That included a 39-point, 15-rebound masterclass in a Game 3 win.

Edwards answered with a 36-point performance of his own in one of Minnesota's victories. That's box office, right there. Two of the best young players alive were trading haymakers with a trip to the conference finals on the line. And it's not just the playoffs.

The Spurs and Timberwolves met three times during the season, but Vic missed the first meeting. In the final two matchups, both players were present, and they gave us two of the most heart-racing games of the year. We're talking 50-point scoring nights, huge clutch baskets, and high playoff-like intensity. You leave every clash wanting more.

The Timberwolves front office made risky moves and people have doubts

I get the counterargument. This franchise traded Naz Reid and Julius Randle to bring in LaMelo Ball, and then they signed Jonathan Kuminga to patch the hole in the frontcourt they created. I've already broken down how I felt about bringing Ball in, and I stand by it. I don't believe that a 42% career shooter who has mostly been a vibes guy will suddenly turn into a winning player in Minnesota.

I'd counter the counter by reminding folks that a rivalries list isn't a season preview. It's a bet on which players and teams make you want to tune in. That bet was already settled before Minny touched its roster. Edwards is still one of the most electric guards in the league, right? And he's still hilarious? Okay, then.

Wemby doesn't need the Timberwolves to be a top contender for his rise to be worth watching against the guy who's given him the toughest fits of anyone his age. I don't care what Minnesota's record looks like in April. Every time The Alien and Ant-Man share a floor, we'll all be watching.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow