The Unbreakable Bond: 5 Things To Know About Anthony Edwards' Mom And Grandma, Yvette And Shirley

The tragic and inspiring story of Anthony Edwards' mother and grandmother remains one of the most poignant narratives in the NBA today, a foundation of resilience that fuels the Minnesota Timberwolves star's explosive career. As of late 2025, Edwards continues to honor the two most important women in his life, Chrisha Yvette Edwards and Shirley Edwards, whose memory is literally worn on his back every time he steps onto the court.

Their passing, which occurred when Edwards was just a teenager, created an unbreakable bond and a source of motivation, transforming a devastating loss into the core of his professional identity. The dedication is not just symbolic; it is a meticulously chosen tribute that reflects the cruel and specific timing of their deaths.

The Biographical Profile: Chrisha Yvette Edwards and Shirley Edwards

The lives of Chrisha Yvette Edwards and Shirley Edwards were instrumental in shaping the future number one NBA draft pick. They were the primary caregivers and emotional anchors for Edwards during his formative years in Atlanta, Georgia. Their legacy is one of strength, love, and unwavering support.

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• Chrisha Yvette Edwards (Mother):
  • Full Name: Chrisha Yvette Edwards.
  • Death Date: January 5, 2015.
  • Age at Passing: 43 years old.
  • Cause of Death: Cancer.
  • Role: She was Anthony's primary parent and a major influence on his early life and interest in sports.
• Shirley Edwards (Maternal Grandmother):
  • Full Name: Shirley Edwards.
  • Death Date: Passed away on the 5th day of a month, approximately eight months after her daughter, Yvette, in 2015.
  • Cause of Death: Cancer.
  • Role: Shirley was a co-anchor in raising Anthony, providing a stable, loving home environment alongside Yvette in Atlanta's West End.

The double tragedy struck Anthony when he was just 14 years old, an eighth-grader. The loss of both his mother and grandmother to cancer within an eight-month span was a devastating blow that redefined his life and future trajectory.

The Profound Meaning of Jersey Number 5

The most public and enduring tribute to his mother and grandmother is the number Anthony Edwards wears: No. 5. This choice is deeply personal and is far from a random selection. Edwards has worn the number 5 jersey since his time playing for the Georgia Bulldogs in college, and he now proudly wears it for the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The specific reason for the number five is heartbreakingly simple: both Chrisha Yvette Edwards and Shirley Edwards passed away on the fifth day of a month. This numerical coincidence became a powerful symbol of their combined legacy.

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Edwards has referred to it as a "family number," a constant, physical reminder of the two women who guided him. This tribute is a key element of his identity, connecting his personal pain to his professional success on the biggest stage in basketball. The jersey change from No. 1 to No. 5 with the Timberwolves further solidified this commitment to honor his family.

Resilience and The Fuel for an NBA Star

The loss of his mother and grandmother did not derail Anthony Edwards; instead, it became a powerful, driving force. The emotional trauma experienced at such a young age—losing two primary figures to cancer—forced a level of maturity and focus that few teenagers possess. He was determined to pursue a career in basketball, knowing it was a path to honor their memory and secure a better future for his family.

After the passing of Yvette and Shirley, Edwards and his siblings were taken in by his older sister, Antoinette "Titi" Edwards, and his older brother, Antoine "Bubba" Edwards. This shift in family dynamics, characterized by deep sibling bonds, ensured Anthony had the support structure to continue his journey.

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The resilience he developed is evident in his aggressive, confident style of play in the NBA. He often speaks about how their memory motivates him, turning their absence into a positive, relentless energy on the court. During the 2020 NBA Draft, where he was selected as the first overall pick, Edwards was photographed seated next to portraits of his late mother and grandmother, an emotional testament to their enduring presence in his life.

The Legacy That Continues to Inspire

The story of Anthony Edwards' mother and grandmother is more than just a tragic footnote; it is a central theme of his public persona and a source of inspiration for fans globally. The fact that his family members were educators (as reported by some sources) suggests a background that valued hard work and learning, principles that Edwards carries into his professional life.

In his ongoing career with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Edwards frequently uses social media to post poignant tributes, ensuring their memory remains current and acknowledged by his fans. These tributes often coincide with key dates or milestones, reinforcing the topical authority of his family story.

The entities closely associated with this narrative—Chrisha Yvette Edwards, Shirley Edwards, jersey number 5, cancer awareness, the Atlanta West End, and the Minnesota Timberwolves—all weave together to form a rich tapestry of loss and triumph. Edwards is not just a high-flying shooting guard; he is a testament to the power of family love and the enduring strength found in honoring those who came before him. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that even the deepest personal losses can be transformed into the greatest professional fuel.

The choice to wear the number 5 is a daily act of remembrance, a silent promise to his mother and grandmother that their sacrifices and love were not in vain. As Anthony Edwards continues to ascend into superstardom, he carries their legacy with him, ensuring that Chrisha Yvette Edwards and Shirley Edwards remain a permanent and vital part of the NBA story.