Some NBA players are gifted with athleticism that most can only dream of. Philadelphia 76ers rookie V.J. Edgecombe, one of the most promising young NBA players today, can easily be categorized as one. The 2025 third-overall pick, however, made a shocking statement about a possible spot in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest.
76ers Rookie V.J. Edgecombe Shares Decision About NBA’s Popular Slam Dunk Contest
During the 76ers’ game against the Indiana Pacers on Monday night, Edgecombe delivered one of the best dunks of the 2025-26 season. Receiving a pass during the game’s third quarter, Edgecombe hurried down the lane to rise up and throw a glorious one-handed dunk over Pacers center Tony Bradley.
The reaction from the crowd and the internet was instantaneous, with the young 20-year-old going viral for posterizing an eight-year veteran. The rookie plopped down to the floor soon after, waving to the bench as he smiled after his dunk.
Fans, of course, could only hype Edgecombe’s effort, already locating the signs of an NBA star in the making. Naturally, Edgecombe was asked about the upcoming Slam Dunk contest.
The question also came after Tyrse Maxey made it as a 2026 All-Star starter.
“Yeah, I ain’t doing it,” Edgecombe surprisingly said. When asked about any particular reason, Edgecombe just shook his head as he repeated, “Nah, I’m good. I’m good.”
Fan reactions to Edgecombe’s response remained mixed. While many said they wanted to see younger players take the lead and participate in the All-Star Weekend, others agreed with Edgecombe’s decision to decline.
Many users want the NBA All-Star Weekend reinvented, eager to see new events crop up every few years. However, this doesn’t take away from the iconic dunk contest, which has provided ample entertainment over the years.
The Sixers won 113-104, with Edgecombe scoring 11 points for his team.
The NBA Slam Dunk Contest May Be Losing Relevance
Until a few years ago, the Slam Dunk contest was a highlight of the NBA season. Fans and players looked forward to some fun time off, especially as NBA stars tried to come up with creative dunks.
Unfortunately, the hype around the contest or the All-Star weekend has continued to diminish, and fans are looking for a fresh experience. Many continue to suggest new activities, hoping the NBA changes course.
Having said that, apart from Edgecombe, Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg had a seemingly dismissive reaction about the dunk contest.
“See, I don’t know if I can really compete. I’m more of an in-game dunker,” Flagg said in an interview. “So never say never, but I don’t know if I can really compete.”
Irrespective of the outcome and the All-Star weekend, both Flagg and Edgecombe are regarded as the new faces of the NBA — hopefully looking to make multiple All-Star games memorable before they retire.
