Jersey numbers are not just digits stitched on a uniform but part of an athlete’s identity. From Michael Jordan’s legendary No. 23 to Kobe Bryant’s evolution from No. 8 to 24, and LeBron James alternating between No. 6 and 23, numbers can symbolize a player’s journey, inspiration, or tribute to a loved one.
But the story behind his jersey number is far from dramatic for VJ Edgecombe, the Philadelphia 76ers’ newest rookie. It’s funny.
Why Did VJ Edgecombe Choose Jersey No. 77?
Edgecombe, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, recently shared the reason behind his No. 77 jersey choice, and it’s not what anyone expected.
In a video posted on the NBA’s official X account, Edgecombe candidly explained his decision-making process.
“My name’s V.J. Edgecombe,” he said. “I’m No. 77 of the 76ers. I chose 77 because all the other numbers were taken. And seven’s my favorite number, so I just doubled it.”
“I chose 77 because all the other numbers were taken.”
VJ Edgecombe keeping it real on his jersey number choice 🤣 pic.twitter.com/4H2pPG0KqG
— NBA (@NBA) July 16, 2025
Yes, that’s it.
While fans may have expected a touching backstory or a tribute to a basketball idol, Edgecombe’s explanation was honest. What makes this even more interesting is that, according to Basketball Reference, Edgecombe becomes the first player in 76ers history to ever wear the No. 77 jersey.
At Baylor, Edgecombe sported No. 7 during his freshman season. However, with veteran point guard Kyle Lowry already occupying that number in Philadelphia, the rookie had to pivot to a different number.
Despite the quirky jersey story, Edgecombe’s game is no joke. 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.
What Can VJ Edgecombe Bring to the 76ers?
Injuries and inconsistency plagued Philadelphia’s 2024–25 season. The 76ers ended their season with a 24–58 record and missed the NBA playoffs.
With Edgecombe’s arrival, the 76ers may finally have a spark plug to reignite their backcourt. His high-motor defense and ability to guard multiple positions could perfectly complement rising star Tyrese Maxey.
Edgecombe wasted no time making an impression. In his Summer League debut against the Utah Jazz, he dropped 28 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists to showcase his athleticism.
VJ Edgecombe dazzled in his #NBASummer debut for the @sixers!
🔔 28 points
🔔 10 rebounds
🔔 4 assists
🔔 2 blocks pic.twitter.com/sqLlfmuIWA— NBA (@NBA) July 6, 2025
“Just a lot of everything,” 76ers head coach Nick Nurse said on “The Hoops Collective” podcast. “First of all, incredible athlete. Does things defensively. Like, he’s good defensively, but he makes plays, shot-blocker, you don’t see that a lot (shot-blocking) from the wing position.
“Tries really hard on D,” Nurse said. “Explosive. Looked like he’s got some shimmy to get his own shot off. He’s a full-court player, getting up and down in transition. And then he’s an incredible person, he’s really all about working really hard. Super respectful, and he’s just great to be around.”
It remains to be seen how Edgecombe performs and helps the 76ers in the upcoming 2025–26 NBA season.
