V.J. Edgecombe stepped onto the Summer League court for the first time and immediately showed Philadelphia 76ers fans why their team used the third overall pick on him. 28 points in his debut, followed by a resilient comeback performance after injury. Now the former Baylor guard has his sights set on two ambitious goals that would cap off a dream rookie season.
What Are V.J. Edgecombe’s Two Major Goals for His Rookie Season?
Edgecombe was always expected to be a top-five pick, but no one expected him to go third overall to the Sixers, who were heavily linked with Ace Bailey. However, his college stats show why he became an obvious choice for Philadelphia.
During his lone season with the Baylor Bears, he averaged 15.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 2.1 steals per game across 33 appearances. His efficient shooting splits of 43.5% from the field and 34% from three-point range earned him Big 12 Freshman of the Year honors.
The 19-year-old couldn’t hide his excitement about joining the Sixers organization and believes they have a legitimate shot at reaching the NBA Finals in 2025-26.
“It was amazing,” he said. “Knowing I’m going to a great organization, I feel like we have a chance to go to the finals. I’m ready.”
When asked whether he had set any goals for the season, Edgecombe named the Rookie of the Year honor and winning an NBA Championship.
VJ Edgecombe on going to the 76ers:
“I feel like we have a chance to go to the finals…I want to win a championship” pic.twitter.com/DSg8JObi9k
— Oh No He Didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) July 18, 2025
While winning the championship will largely depend on how Joel Embiid and Paul George perform through the season, he has a very good chance of becoming the ROTY. And if the award was given based on just two games in the Summer League, he would definitely win it right now.
How Has Edgecombe Performed in His Limited Summer League Action?
Edgecombe made his debut on July 5 against the Utah Jazz in Salt Lake City, putting together a performance that immediately caught everyone’s attention. The rookie guard dominated with 28 points and 10 rebounds while contributing four assists, two blocks, and one steal in 30 minutes of action.
His transition game stood out most during that first outing. Edgecombe shot a perfect 6-for-6 on two-point attempts in fast breaks, including spectacular alley-oop dunks that showcased his athleticism. The third overall pick also displayed his defensive ability with chase-down blocks that had fans buzzing about his two-way potential.
The soon-to-be 20-year-old missed four games after his debut due to a left thumb sprain. When he returned on July 15 against the Washington Wizards, he faced early adversity that tested his resolve.
VJ Edgecombe in his #NBA2KSummerLeague debut:
🔔 15 PTS
🔔 6 REB
🔔 4 AST
🔔 3 STL
🔔 76ers W pic.twitter.com/XxZyMeERaO— NBA (@NBA) July 16, 2025
Edgecombe shot 0-for-7 from the field in the first half but maintained his aggressive approach and helped the team with his defense before finding his rhythm in the second half. He ended the night with 15 points, six rebounds, four assists, and three steals. With 1:52 left on the clock, he hit a crucial three-pointer that helped secure the 74-58 victory, showing his ability to deliver in pressure moments.
The former Baylor guard sat out the Sixers’ game against the Mavericks, and his participation in Philadelphia’s next game against the Brooklyn Nets is uncertain as well.
