76ers' VJ Edgecombe Could Get Extended Look

VJ Edgecombe, the No. 3 pick in the 2025 draft out of Baylor and Big 12 Freshman of the Year after a one-and-done season (15.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 2.1 steals), made his preseason debut for the Philadelphia 76ers in Abu Dhabi. He started and played about 30–31 minutes, finishing with 14 points, six rebounds and three assists on 4-of-13 shooting in a 99-84 loss to the New York Knicks. The 76ers praised his athleticism, versatility and disruptive on-ball defense, and with Jared McCain sidelined by a thumb issue Edgecombe is likely to receive an extended look in the preseason. He arrived after a strong Summer League but a prior thumb issue, has been working on fixing a flat release and adding arc to his jumper, and shrugged off Vince Carter dunk comparisons while emphasizing humility. While Philadelphia’s veteran core (Joel Embiid, Paul George, Tyrese Maxey) will shape his long-term role, this preseason is a key audition for how quickly he factors into the rotation.