The Untold Truth: Who Is Anthony Edwards’ Father And The Two Women Who Truly Raised The NBA Star?

The question of "who is Anthony Edwards' dad" is more complex than a simple name, as the Minnesota Timberwolves star's life story is a powerful testament to the women who truly raised him. As of December 18, 2025, the identity of his biological father is widely reported to be Roger Caruth, but his role in the NBA phenom's life was largely absent, making the narrative of his upbringing a poignant tale of love, loss, and resilience. Edwards’ incredible journey to becoming a top NBA draft pick and a global superstar is defined not by the man who gave him his nickname, but by the two matriarchs who instilled the toughness and spirit he exhibits on the court.

Anthony Edwards, known globally as "Ant-Man," has consistently credited his success to the unwavering support and sacrifice of his late mother, Chrisha Yvette Edwards, and his maternal grandmother, Shirley Edwards. Both women tragically passed away in 2015 due to cancer, a devastating loss that occurred when Edwards was just 14 years old. This profound family dynamic—one of an absentee father and two powerful, loving female figures—is the key to understanding the mindset and drive of one of the NBA's most exciting players today, a story that is far more impactful than just a name.

Anthony Edwards: A Complete Family & Biography Profile

Anthony Edwards' personal life is deeply rooted in Atlanta, Georgia, and defined by the significant losses he endured at a young age. His biography is a tribute to the strong women who shaped his character and athletic ambition.

• The One Where They Tanked Jokes 15 Shocking New Secrets From The Friends Tv Show Behind The Scenes G9zdh

• Full Name: Anthony Edwards
• Nickname: "Ant-Man"
• Date of Birth: August 5, 2001
• Place of Birth: Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.
• Biological Father: Roger Caruth (Largely absent from his upbringing)
• Mother: Chrisha Yvette Edwards (Deceased, 2015, ovarian cancer)
• Maternal Grandmother: Shirley Edwards (Deceased, 2015, cancer)
• Siblings: Two older siblings (a brother and a sister)
• High School: Holy Spirit Preparatory School (Atlanta, GA)
• College: University of Georgia (Georgia Bulldogs)
• NBA Draft: 1st Overall Pick in 2020 by the Minnesota Timberwolves

The Man Who Gave the Nickname: Roger Caruth

The man identified as Anthony Edwards’ biological father is Roger Caruth. While his presence in Edwards’ life was minimal, he is credited with one significant contribution that has become synonymous with the NBA star's persona: the nickname "Ant-Man."

Caruth reportedly gave Edwards the "Ant-Man" nickname when Anthony was only three years old. This moniker has stuck with him throughout his life, from his amateur days to his rise as a professional athlete with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Interestingly, Caruth was also reportedly a gifted basketball player himself, suggesting that Edwards’ athletic genes may trace back to his father.

However, the connection largely ends there. Multiple reports, including profiles by ESPN and Britannica, indicate that Roger Caruth was largely absent from Anthony Edwards' childhood. This absence created the unique and challenging family dynamic that ultimately forged Edwards’ character. The lack of a consistent father figure meant that the responsibility of raising the future NBA star fell entirely on the women in his life, a fact that Edwards has never shied away from acknowledging.

• The Untouchable Privacy 7 Secrets Of Rachel Mcadams And Jamie Lindens Life Beyond The Red Carpet E820e

For a period, there was some public confusion regarding the identity of Edwards' father, with some early reports stating the name was not known or publicly disclosed. However, the consensus from authoritative sources now names Roger Caruth, while simultaneously emphasizing his minimal role, which is the crucial context for understanding Edwards' personal story.

The Matriarchs: Chrisha Yvette and Shirley Edwards

The true foundation of Anthony Edwards’ life, both on and off the court, was built by his mother, Chrisha Yvette Edwards, and his maternal grandmother, Shirley Edwards. They were the primary caregivers who raised him in the West End neighborhood of Atlanta, Georgia.

Chrisha Yvette Edwards: The Guiding Force

Chrisha Yvette Edwards was the central figure in Anthony's life, providing the love, discipline, and support he needed. She was his biggest motivator and source of strength. Tragically, she passed away in 2015 after a battle with ovarian cancer. Edwards was only in the eighth grade at the time, a devastating blow that profoundly impacted his young life.

• Shania Twains Bold Statement Why The Star Chose Nude Photoshoots At 57 Qf9cg

To honor his mother and grandmother, Edwards wears the number 5 on his jersey, a tribute to the date they both passed away—the 5th of the month (Chrisha on January 5 and Shirley on November 5). This small detail is a constant reminder of the two women he lost and the legacy of resilience they left behind.

Shirley Edwards: The Second Mother

Following the passing of his mother, Edwards’ maternal grandmother, Shirley Edwards, stepped up to continue raising him. Shirley provided the stability and unwavering support necessary for him to continue pursuing his dreams. However, the tragedy struck again when Shirley also passed away from cancer later that same year.

Losing both his mother and grandmother in the same year was an unimaginable hardship. This period of loss forced Anthony and his older siblings to lean on each other, with his brother and sister playing a significant role in his subsequent upbringing.

How Loss Shaped Anthony Edwards' NBA Career

The challenging family circumstances and the profound loss of his mother and grandmother are not just tragic footnotes in Anthony Edwards’ biography; they are the driving force behind his ferocious competitive spirit and dedication to basketball. This emotional weight has been converted into an extraordinary work ethic and a visible passion for the game.

• The Drive to Succeed: Edwards has frequently stated that he plays for his mother and grandmother. His dedication to reaching the highest levels of the NBA is a way to honor their memory and the sacrifices they made for him.
• Mental Toughness: Overcoming such significant adversity at a young age instilled a remarkable level of mental toughness. This resilience is evident in his ability to perform under pressure in high-stakes NBA games.
• Family Values: Despite the absence of his biological father, Edwards' definition of family is strong. He remains close to his siblings and has embraced his role as a father himself, welcoming a child in 2024.

In short, while Roger Caruth is the biological father who gave him the "Ant-Man" nickname, the real story of Anthony Edwards' rise to stardom is a powerful narrative of matriarchal strength. Chrisha Yvette Edwards and Shirley Edwards are the true parental figures whose enduring love and sacrifice continue to fuel one of the most exciting young talents in professional basketball.