V.J. Edgecombe enters the NBA as one of the most promising rookies from the 2025 Draft class.
The Philadelphia 76ers selected him third overall after his productive Baylor career that featured 15 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game.
Excitement surrounds V.J. Edgecombe’s rookie season, with expectations of immediate significant playing time.
The 76ers’ injury situation with Paul George and Joel Embiid creates opportunity for expanded rookie responsibilities.
Edgecombe demonstrated his potential during Summer League play, including a double-double performance against the Utah Jazz.
His confidence stems partly from pre-draft advice he received from veteran shooting guard Klay Thompson.
Edgecombe revealed Thompson’s advice focused on enjoying the draft experience rather than rushing toward future achievements.
The four-time champion emphasized patience and appreciation for career milestones.
“The main thing he told me is ‘enjoy the journey’. He’s like ‘you gonna win championships and all that, but the draft night and all that, it’s going to be the best time, you only do that once’,” Edgecombe explained.
Thompson’s message was based on his own experience as a champion and his knowledge of how quickly careers can change.
The experienced guard said that it’s important to enjoy special moments like draft night.
“He won a ring four times, but he’s just like ‘enjoy the journey, stay in the gym and enjoy the journey’,” Edgecombe added, highlighting Thompson’s emphasis on both hard work and appreciation.
Edgecombe’s perimeter shooting requires continued development despite his position as a shooting guard. He connected on 34% of three-point attempts during his college career at Baylor.
His Summer League performance showed inconsistent shooting results, with good and poor nights from beyond the arc.
The fluctuation indicates potential for improvement through proper development and repetition. Edgecombe could ask Thompson for advice in this regard once again.
Edgecombe also identified Buddy Hield as a mentor figure who could aid his development. Hield now plays for Thompson’s former team the Golden State Warriors, creating connections between proven shooters.
Edgecombe possesses the physical tools and basketball instincts that complement potential shooting improvement.
His athleticism, explosiveness, and speed create advantages that extend beyond perimeter shooting.
The rookie also demonstrated defensive awareness and basketball IQ that suggest well-rounded development potential.
Philadelphia would benefit significantly if Edgecombe successfully improves his three-point consistency. His athletic gifts combined with reliable shooting would create a dangerous two-way player.
And Philadelphia’s situation aligns perfectly with Edgecombe’s development timeline. The rookie can grow into his role while the 76ers manage their veteran stars’ return to full health.
