In the world of professional basketball, matchups often come with layers of backstory—old teammates, former teams, lingering rivalries, and quiet grudges that bubble to the surface when it matters most. For Malik Beasley, this year’s playoff series brought exactly that kind of emotional fuel. Facing off against a former teammate under the postseason spotlight, Beasley didn’t shy away from the moment—he embraced it, spoke about it openly, and let his game do the rest of the talking.
Beasley, now with the Milwaukee Bucks, found himself lined up across from a familiar face—his ex-teammate from the Minnesota Timberwolves, Anthony Edwards. The two guards once shared a backcourt in the Twin Cities, where sparks of chemistry and tension alike could be found on and off the court. Though their time together was relatively short, the impressions clearly lasted. When asked about playing against Edwards in this first-round playoff matchup, Beasley didn’t hold back.
“This is personal,” Beasley said after Game 1. “I’ve got a lot of love for Ant, but when we’re on that court, it’s war. We’re not teammates anymore. We’re competitors. And I want this more than anybody.”
Beasley’s words set the tone for the series. He poured in 18 points in that opening game, including a stretch in the third quarter where he hit three straight threes—punctuated by a hard stare down the court and a few choice words not suitable for broadcast. His intensity was palpable, his energy infectious, and his body language made it clear: this meant more.
Their dynamic in Minnesota had been intriguing. Edwards, a budding star from the moment he entered the league, quickly became the Timberwolves’ primary scoring option. Beasley, a capable shooter and high-energy scorer, had to adjust. The two had moments of brilliance, but also signs of friction. Beasley, who prides himself on his work ethic and passion, sometimes found himself relegated to a lesser role—something he didn’t always agree with.
“It was frustrating at times,” Beasley admitted during a post-practice interview this week. “I felt like I had more to give, but it wasn’t always recognized. I never hated on Ant. He’s a hell of a player. But when you believe in yourself, and you’re not getting the same belief from your team, it sticks with you.”
Now in Milwaukee, Beasley has carved out a crucial role on a contending team. Surrounded by stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, he’s found his niche as a knockdown shooter and high-energy defender. And with Khris Middleton battling injuries, Beasley’s importance in this playoff run has only grown. He’s responded with poise and purpose, averaging 14.7 points per game in the series while shooting over 40% from deep.
But it’s not just the numbers that stand out—it’s the edge he’s playing with. Facing Edwards has brought something out of him. Whether it’s chasing him around screens, picking him up full court, or letting him hear it after a big shot, Beasley is clearly embracing the matchup.
“Malik’s playing with a chip on his shoulder,” Bucks head coach Doc Rivers noted. “You can tell this one matters to him. He’s been one of our most vocal leaders in this series, and he’s backing it up with his play.”
Edwards, to his credit, has handled the intensity with calm. “That’s my guy,” he said when asked about Beasley’s comments. “We went through a lot together in Minnesota. I know how much this means to him. I’m not taking anything personal—it’s the playoffs. Everybody’s got something to prove.”
Still, the back-and-forth has added spice to an already intriguing series. Beasley isn’t just trying to help the Bucks advance—he’s trying to send a message. That he’s more than a role player. That his game deserves respect. And maybe, just maybe, that the Timberwolves made a mistake letting him go.
“I’ve always bet on myself,” Beasley said after Game 3, in which he logged 22 points and a team-high +16 in plus-minus. “Everywhere I’ve gone, I’ve had to prove I belong. This ain’t any different. People forget fast in this league. But I don’t.”
Whether the Bucks win the series or not, Beasley’s performance has caught attention. He’s reminding everyone that he’s still got plenty left in the tank—and that his journey is far from over.
Basketball is full of storylines, but the best ones are often unscripted. When two players with history collide under the bright lights, the game becomes more than a game. It becomes personal. For Malik Beasley, these playoffs are just that—a personal stage, a personal challenge, and most of all, a personal statement.
And he’s making sure we hear every word of it.
