Obama teams up with Anthony Edwards to promote Presidential Center opening in Chicago

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS: Barack Obama teamed up with NBA All-Star Anthony Edwards to promote the upcoming opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. The pair released a playful video aimed at building excitement ahead of the launch.

With the doors set to open in June, the team behind the center is working to spread awareness.

Obama, Anthony Edwards boost Chicago center launch campaign

Officials say the initiative is part of broader outreach efforts to draw attention to the facility and its programs.

The pair wrapped up their friendly showdown by dipping their feet in the pool and vowing a rematch, one that Obama already has a location in mind for. “The next one is going to be on my home court at the Obama Presidential Center on the South Side of Chicago,” Obama said.

The lighthearted clip builds on Anthony Edwards’ viral moment with Barack Obama during the 2024 Paris Olympics, featured in Netflix’s ‘Court of Gold.’ When Obama stopped by USA Basketball’s 50th anniversary event in July 2024, he asked Joel Embiid what he thought of Edwards.

“He can hoop a little bit, huh?” Obama said, prompting Embiid to reply, “Just a little bit.” Standing nearby, Edwards didn’t hesitate to respond with his signature confidence. “Man, y’all better stand down. I’m the truth…” he said. “These boys know.” 

The clip concludes with Obama suggesting a rematch at the Obama Presidential Center, tying the informal competition to the venue’s upcoming opening. 

Obama Presidential Center opening draws buzz, guest list speculation

With the launch just around the corner, people are buzzing about who is on the guest list. 

The press release promises “legendary performances by global icons” and speeches from some of the biggest names today. Former presidents will attend, but officials say President Donald Trump is not invited to the grand opening, though George W Bush will be present.

“When visitors look up at the Obama Presidential Center’s Museum building, they’ll see three words: ‘You are America.’ Those words come from a speech I gave in Selma on the 50th anniversary of the march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge,” Obama wrote on Instagram.

“They’re meant to honor the men and women who came before us and to inspire the next generation to be messengers of hope.”

The center will include a museum, a new library branch, and several other amenities spread across the campus.

Obama said he chose this location because he wanted the center, rather than just another presidential library, to give back to the Jackson Park neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side.

That is where Michelle Obama grew up and where he began his political career after winning a state senate seat in 1996.