Philadelphia 76ers fans are eagerly anticipating the debut of VJ Edgecombe, the 2025 third overall draft pick, as he prepares to make his mark in the NBA. In a recent episode of the Paul George NBA Podcast Interview, Edgecombe shared insights into his unique path from the Bahamas to the league, his draft experience, and his rookie ambitions.
During the discussion, Edgecombe expressed how surreal the transition to professional basketball still feels, despite his rapid ascent. He revealed that he initially expected his NBA break to come years later, underscoring the speed of his rise and the dreams that fueled his journey.
“I think that’s why it probably still hasn’t hit me yet, because it still feels surreal. Like you say, back home in the Bahamas, I was just a kid with a dream, just wanted to make it, you know. I always understood my path was going to be different, though, so I was willing to accept whatever comes with it. But I wasn’t expecting it to happen this quick, I’m only 19, I wasn’t expecting it to happen this quick. I was thinking like, probably when I’m 23, 24, probably get like a Summer League shot or something. But man, it still feels surreal, I ain’t going to lie to you. Like in this moment I don’t know, I don’t even believe I’m in the NBA right now.”
This candid reflection highlights Edgecombe’s humility and grounded approach as he begins his career with the Sixers.
Challenges with College Basketball and Transition to the NBA Style
The conversation turned to Edgecombe’s college basketball experience at Baylor University, where he openly admitted his struggles with the style of play. He described feeling constrained by the crowded paint and a system that limited his offensive opportunities, citing differences between college and professional gameplay.
“I hate college basketball, personally. Some people love it, I don’t. I was also there [at Baylor] with two centers, two bigs sitting in the paint, I gotta get to the cup, it was hard. It was bad, cause I’m like, bro, I got no space to operate. And then you can sit in the paint, no three seconds, nothing. Then in college, my coach — coach [Scott] Drew — is a big analytics guy. No mid-rangers. Layups and threes. So it was hard for me, it was probably why my percentages were a little low too, I ain’t gonna lie. … Now the spacing in the NBA, it’s so much better. Plus you’re playing with elite players.”
Edgecombe’s frankness about his college experience reveals his preference for the more open, fast-paced nature of NBA basketball, which better suits his skills and playing style.
The Path to the Sixers and a Key Workout Decision
Edgecombe shared details about his pre-draft workouts, particularly his decision to seize an opportunity with the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite limited options due to another prospect’s scheduling, Edgecombe felt confident about fitting into the Sixers’ culture and seized the chance to impress the team.
“Originally, [the Sixers] were trying to set up a little more [workouts]. But at the time, you know, what with Ace [Bailey] had going on he wasn’t working out for anybody, I’m like, ‘man, I might as well go in and do a workout because why not?’ Gain some momentum, hopefully get that third pick, and I felt like I fit into the team and the culture and all that.”
This insight sheds light on how the Sixers quickly narrowed their pick to Edgecombe, with general manager Daryl Morey and the organization recognizing his compatibility and potential within the team.
Draft Night Surprises and Early Reactions
Edgecombe admitted he only learned of being selected by the Sixers moments before his name was called on draft night. Meanwhile, Paul George recounted how management had already made up their minds about Edgecombe after his workout session, indicating strong confidence in the rookie’s abilities.
Admiration for Damian Lillard and Memorable Playoff Moments
The podcast also touched upon VJ Edgecombe’s fandom of Damian Lillard and how the Brooklyn guard influences his play. This led to a discussion of Lillard’s iconic long-range series-winning shot against Paul George’s Oklahoma City Thunder team in 2019.
Edgecombe’s quick-witted response to whether the shot was good or bad showed his humor and respect for both Lillard and his current teammate George.
My answer right now… That’s a good shot,
—VJ Edgecombe
He added jokingly,
but it’s over my teammate, though, so it’s a bad shot.
—VJ Edgecombe
Setting Ambitious Goals for His Rookie Season
Edgecombe expressed his determination to prepare thoroughly during training camp and establish himself as a valuable contributor to a championship-caliber team. His aspirations include winning the Rookie of the Year award and earning a spot on the All-Defensive team, underlining his competitive spirit and confidence in his defensive abilities.
“I’m gonna start with training camp. Just go in and just play hard, and learn from everybody around, man. I’m blessed to be in this situation, you know, blessed to be on a team to actually have a chance to win the championship. I feel like a healthy Sixers, we’re going to the chip, you feel me? That’s how I feel. But for training camp, I’m just going in to play hard, but for the year, Rookie of the Year, definitely wanna win Rookie of the Year, man, that would be amazing. If I win Rookie of the Year, I’m gonna say it here, I ain’t changing my number. …
“I also want to be on an All-Defensive team. They’re gonna think it’s hard for a rookie, but I don’t think it’s going to be hard for me. I play defense, and I’m gonna be guarding the best players in practice which is gonna prepare me. You know, different [players]. Tyrese [Maxey] is super fast, can shoot the ball, then I have to switch on PG. Then if we’re switching five, maybe I gotta go guard Joel [Embiid]. But I feel like I’m gonna be ready. So I definitely want to be on an All-Defensive team, All-Rookie team, Rookie of the Year, and the chip, that’s my goal.”
His outlook combines maturity with an ambitious pursuit of excellence, reflecting his readiness to embrace all challenges.
Players Who Inspire VJ Edgecombe’s Style on Both Ends of the Court
Edgecombe also discussed the players who have shaped his approach to basketball, mentioning offensive role models like Dwyane Wade, Russell Westbrook, and Victor Oladipo. On defense, he cited elite defenders such as Jrue Holiday, Lu Dort, and Derrick White, using their physicality and versatility as templates for his own game.
These influences underscore Edgecombe’s commitment to developing a multi-dimensional game that balances scoring and defensive intensity, traits that will be vital as he adjusts to NBA competition.
Looking Ahead to a Promising Rookie Campaign with the Sixers
VJ Edgecombe’s comments during the Paul George NBA Podcast Interview reveal a young player who is grounded despite swift success, eager to learn, and determined to make an immediate impact. His clear focus on defense, work ethic, and team philosophy aligns with the Sixers’ aspirations for a championship run.
As the 2025-2026 NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Edgecombe to see if he can translate his high ceiling and honest self-assessment into a standout rookie year, potentially culminating in Rookie of the Year honors. With support from teammates like Paul George, Joel Embiid, and rising star Tyrese Maxey, Edgecombe’s journey promises to be a compelling chapter in the Sixers’ pursuit of NBA glory.