All eyes were on Giannis Antetokounmpo on his debut in the Miami Heat jersey.
However, Anthony Edwards ended up stealing the spotlight by delivering a one-of-a-kind performance.
Only two players in NBA history have opened a season with numbers like these. And we are talking about two legends: Wilt Chamberlain and Michael Jordan.
Edwards shone brightly with 45 points, 10 rebounds and nine three-pointers made to beat the Florida side 131-106.
“This game has been crazy,” exclaimed Edwards.
ANT JUST WENT OFF TO LEAD MINNESOTA TO VICTORY! 45 PTS 10 REB 9 3PM FIRST PLAYER IN NBA HISTORY WITH 45+ PTS, 10+ REB, AND 5+ 3PM IN A SEASON OPENER 🤯 https://t.co/m1Y3cKKUAE
— NBA (@NBA) October 22, 2026
The T-Wolves star moved like a fish in water and scored more threes than the entire Miami Heat team combined (8 of 33 attempts).
His stat line finished with 16/29 from the field, 9/17 from three-point range and 4/5 from the free-throw line.
First player in history to post 45 points, 10 rebounds and five or more three-pointers made in an opening game.
“Given his mentality and abilities, Anthony has always thrived in moments like this. He lives them with intensity and embraces them,” said Chris Finch.
“And the opening night is always special for any player,” the coach acknowledged.
It was also the case last season for Anthony Edwards, who went as high as 41 points against Portland.
And he has repeated it this 2026-27 season with 45 in total. 12 points in the first quarter; nine in the second; 15 in the third, and another nine in the fourth.
Chamberlain managed to score 40 points in four consecutive opening games between 1959 and 1962.
For his part, Michael Jordan achieved it on three occasions: 1986, 1989 and 1995.
(Cover photo: Reuters)