VJ Edgecombe Doesn't Hesitate With Message on 76ers
VJ Edgecombe Doesn't Hesitate With Message on 76ers originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Philadelphia 76ers are still focused on potentially winning an NBA championship with their Big 3. Philadelphia didn't have the best first season with its new superstar trio of Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey. Despite the high expectations surrounding the team after George joined in free agency to form a formidable core with Embiid and Maxey, chemistry issues, injuries, and inconsistent play plagued their campaign. As a result, the Sixers struggled to find rhythm throughout the year and ultimately missed the playoffs—a disappointing outcome given the talent on their roster.
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However, Philly was rewarded with the No. 3 pick at the 2025 draft and used it to select VJ Edgecombe.
Adding an athletic youngster to the group was the 76ers' goal after missing the postseason. President of Basketball Operations, Daryl Morey, expressed the team's goal to acquire a young and athletic player in the offseason. Edgecombe ticked both boxes as he's 19 years old and recorded a maximum vertical leap of 40 inches at the draft combine.
VJ Edgecombe arrives before the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft at Barclays Center.Brad Penner-Imagn Images
After his selection, Edgecombe spoke to the media and revealed his excitement in joining the 76ers. He's aware that the team is focused on winning an NBA title and told the media that he's ready to help.
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"That would mean a lot," Edgecombe said. "It's been a minute since they won. Going in there and being that piece that's going to help them get over the hump would mean a lot to me, it would mean a lot to the fans, the owners. All that. I'm excited to go there [and] see what we can do."
Drafting Edgecombe gives the 76ers a balance of youthful energy and veteran experience. The former Baylor star is on the same track as Maxey and Jared McCain. They could be the next wave of stars for Philly after Embiid and George.
The 6-foot-5 guard is ready to take on the challenge of the NBA grind as the 76ers continue with their star trio.
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Related: Ace Bailey's Controversial Stance on 76ers Appears to Have Backfired
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 26, 2025, where it first appeared.
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