On March 1, 2026, during a heated NBA showdown at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Minnesota Timberwolves’ star guard Anthony Edwards took control of a critical moment late in the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Clippers. With just over 1:50 left and the Timberwolves leading narrowly, Edwards chose to take a high-pressure shot himself instead of passing to a teammate for an easier finish. The initial attempt missed, allowing the Clippers to rebound, but Edwards redeemed himself moments later by nailing a deep three-pointer over two defenders. This clutch shot sealed a 94-88 victory for Minnesota and showcased Edwards’ confidence and willingness to take responsibility in crucial situations, underlining why the “Anthony Edwards Last Shot” decision has become a defining aspect of his play style.
Following the game-winning basket, Edwards was captured shouting,
“That’s what I do… That’s what I f——- do,”
directly at head coach Chris Finch, igniting a debate among fans and analysts about respect and team dynamics.
Shaquille O’Neal Supports Edwards’ Boldness in Taking Key Shots
Despite some criticism over Edwards’ confrontation with Coach Finch, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, commonly known as Shaq, publicly defended the young guard’s assertiveness. On multiple occasions, Shaq praised players who confidently step up to take game-deciding shots, comparing Edwards to some of the greatest clutch performers he has played alongside, including Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, and Penny Hardaway.
“That must play a factor, respect. They come respectfully; it doesn’t matter what they say, as long as your job gets done,”
Shaq remarked.
“I’ve seen that before. I’ve been involved with that, but I like playing with a guy like that. Kobe was like that. D Wade was, like, that Penny Hardaway. It was like, you need that guy that says, ‘Hey, man, I’m taking the last shot.’ I don’t care what anybody says. But again, as long as it’s respectful, it doesn’t matter.”
Shaquille O’Neal, NBA Legend
Shaq’s encouragement highlights the value of having a fearless closer who embraces the responsibility of the final moments of a game, even if the decision occasionally draws internal criticism.
Coach Finch’s Perspective on the Sideline Exchange with Edwards
Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch addressed the incident shortly after the game, putting the public discussion to rest by emphasizing the competitive nature that exists between himself and Edwards. Finch explained that their intense exchanges are part of a longstanding relationship built on mutual respect and fiery competitiveness.
“It’s been part of our relationship since Day 1. We have a phenomenally talented player who makes great shots, and he’s a closer. He’s taken major strides in that department, and we’re lucky to have him. This is not the first game-winning shot that he’s made for us this season. But he also has the burden of responsibility of making his teammates better and making the right play,”
Finch stated.
The coach added that both he and Edwards are emotionally passionate about the game and that their banter is friendly and competitive rather than hostile.
“He’s really emotional. I’m emotional. We say these things to each other, and we move on; we don’t take it personally. I didn’t think the comments after the game were mean-spirited; I thought he was just kind of joking around. We just jab back and forth with each other. These guys are super competitive; they’re very prideful. Sometimes you gotta stoke that fire, and sometimes it comes back on you, but that’s part of it.”
Chris Finch, Minnesota Timberwolves Head Coach
Anthony Edwards Reflects on Relationship with Coach Finch
In his postgame media interaction, Edwards echoed Finch’s comments about their connection, highlighting the trust and understanding between player and coach. Edwards acknowledged the coach’s advice before the game but also his own confidence in making his move.
“Me and my coach got the best relationship ever,”
Edwards said.
“He be right most of the time. 98 percent of the time, he be right. He told me to pass the ball tonight and I should have passed it. But I shot it instead, and it went win. The basketball gods was on my side tonight.”
Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves Shooting Guard
The Importance of Having a Clutch Player Like Edwards on the Team
Edwards’ determination to take critical shots aligns with the qualities celebrated in NBA greats who thrive under pressure. Shaquille O’Neal has repeatedly emphasized how instrumental such players are to a franchise’s success. Having previously named Edwards as a modern player capable of competing in his own era, Shaq’s endorsement reinforces the guard’s rising stature in the league.
Edwards’ style—taking the last shot with confidence, despite criticism or advice—may spark heated discussions but ultimately provides the Minnesota Timberwolves with a go-to closer who is unafraid of the moment. His relationship with Coach Finch, based on fierce competitiveness and mutual respect, forms a dynamic that fuels both individual and team growth.
What This Means for the Timberwolves Moving Forward
The incident sheds light on the delicate balance coaches and star players must maintain in high-stakes games. While independent decision-making is crucial for players like Edwards, teamwork and communication remain equally important. With six seasons together, Finch and Edwards have demonstrated the ability to navigate heated moments without derailing their overall team cohesion.
As the Timberwolves look ahead to the rest of the season, fans and analysts will closely watch how this rapport evolves, particularly in tight game situations demanding clutch performance. Edwards’ willingness to take responsibility for last plays, combined with Finch’s steady coaching approach, suggests these moments will continue, building the Timberwolves’ identity around resilience and competitive fire.
Shaq on Anthony Edwards comments to Cris Finch about taking the last shot:
"I like playing with a guy like that, Kobe, D Wade, Penny were all like that. You need that guy that says 'hey man, I'm taking the last shot.' I don't care what nobody says" pic.twitter.com/ZoPunZmFcS
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) March 1, 2026
