Anthony Edwards roasts Noah Lyles with "Hater of the Year" award

Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards took a playful jab at Olympic champion Noah Lyles, naming him "Hater of the Year" during his inaugural "Believe That" awards ceremony held on Wednesday.

The event, streamed on YouTube, showcased Edwards' charismatic personality as he handed out a series of unconventional awards to figures across sports and entertainment. The "Hater of the Year" category was a highlight, featuring Lyles alongside outspoken sports analyst Skip Bayless, NBA legend Charles Barkley, and Lakers icon Magic Johnson.

The playful feud between Edwards and Lyles stems from comments the track star made last year. In a TIME cover story, Lyles expressed frustration that Adidas was celebrating Edwards with a signature shoe, referring to him as a "man who has not even been in the NBA Finals," despite Lyles' own decorated career with the brand.

Edwards promoted the event on his Instagram, telling followers, "Believe That Awards on YT at 4pm! Lock in! Tap In! Subscribe! Like! All da above!"

Other unique categories included "White Boy of the Year," "Woman of the Year," and "Artist of the Year." In a move typical of his self-confidence, Edwards swept the "Sneaker of the Year" category, awarding all five top spots to his own AE1 signature shoe line. The "Legacy Award" was presented to actress Mara Wilson.

This lighthearted event comes as Edwards prepares for the upcoming NBA season. Last year, he led the Timberwolves to their second consecutive Western Conference Finals appearance, where they fell to the eventual champion Oklahoma City Thunder after a 49-33 regular season. Edwards posted impressive averages of 27.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game.

Reflecting on his offseason preparation, Edwards emphasized his focus on fundamental improvements.

"I feel like I was able to actually work on my game," Edwards told the Associated Press. "There were a lot of boring days in the gym, just working on one-dribble pull-ups. But I think it benefits me."

The Minnesota Timberwolves are set to begin their 2024-25 campaign on October 22 against the Portland Trail Blazers.