When LeBron James left the Lakers and Jaylen Brown was traded from the Celtics to the Philadelphia 76ers, many in the NBA fraternity wondered how the two stars would fit together. Even more questioned how their arrival will affect a certain VJ Edgecombe, who will enter only his second season in the NBA.
But the early signs suggest the chemistry is already developing. Just two days ago, a video shared by skills development trainer Chris Johnson showed James, Brown, and other 76ers players working together.
Now, Edgecombe has opened up about what it has been like practicing alongside the two superstars.
VJ Edgecombe Seems To Be Loving Life With LeBron James and Jaylen Brown
In a recent interview with “The Philadelphia Inquirer’s” Chris Hine, Edgecombe spoke about his offseason workouts with James and Brown. Rather than describing them as distant superstars, the young guard gave the impression that both veterans have been easy to work with.
“They are all great persons. Down to earth. They’re not acting super big time, like they are. They’re really just a bunch of humble men. I’m just glad to be around them,” Edgecombe said.
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At the same time, the young 76ers star admitted that he is still amazed that James is now part of the franchise.
“It [being starstruck] hasn’t gone away yet. It’ll probably go away once we’re all in the locker room or something, but our relationship has been growing. We talk, I always ask questions, and I’m just trying to learn a lot,” he added.
VJ Edgecombe talks about his offseason workouts, if he’s still starstruck talking to LeBron and what it’s been like getting to know his new teammates:
“They not acting super big time, like they are. They’re really just a bunch of humble men. I’m just glad to be around them.” pic.twitter.com/tzPi1vCe3j
— Chris Hine (@ChristopherHine) August 22, 2026
Edgecombe joined Philadelphia after the team selected him as the No. 3 overall pick of the 2025 NBA Draft. He made an immediate impact in his rookie season, averaging 16.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.4 steals in 75 games during the 2025-26 season.
The arrival of James and Brown could change how much offensive pressure falls on him. Having two elite scorers who can create their own shots and run the offense should free Edgecombe up to play more off the ball, attack gaps, and grow into his game without being forced to do everything himself.
Some even believe the youngster might be better off coming off the bench and leading the 76ers’ bench unit.
At the same time, there is also the possibility of Joel Embiid returning to the court from the start of the season. During an interview with ESPN, 76ers president Mike Gansey said Embiid was fully healthy and was no longer dealing with restrictions as he continued his offseason preparation.
“Joel is great. This is like the first summer, I think, in a while that he’s been healthy, so he’s been in the gym working out. He’s been lifting weights. He’s extra motivated. He wants to play a lot of games, and he’s excited about the group we’ve built now,” Gansey said.
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If Embiid is ready to begin the season without limitations, Edgecombe will have even more veteran talent around him. While questions about his best fit may remain, there is little doubt that Edgecombe can learn a lot in the coming time.
