Philadelphia 76ers Select VJ Edgecombe with Third Overall Pick in 2025 NBA Draft
The Philadelphia 76ers made a significant move on Wednesday night, selecting Baylor guard VJ Edgecombe with the third overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Edgecombe, a dynamic and athletic player, earned the title of Big 12 Freshman of the Year after a standout season at Baylor, where he averaged 15 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.1 steals per game.
Daryl Morey, the Sixers' president of basketball operations, expressed optimism about Edgecombe's potential, likening him to an All-Star caliber player. However, he urged fans to exercise patience as the young guard transitions into the league. "I will ask our fanbase, early returns can get magnified," Morey stated. "He's strong and physical, so I think he'll adjust quicker than most draft picks, but they take a little time sometimes, but we're really excited about him."
Prior to the draft, Edgecombe was widely anticipated to land in Philadelphia. He was the only prospect to visit the Sixers for a workout and interview. Despite appearing nervous during his workout, reports indicated that he impressed the team during interviews. "I do like having dinner with the guys, I do like getting to know them better," Morey noted regarding the pre-draft process.
Morey downplayed the significance of workouts, emphasizing the value of personal interactions over performance metrics. "If you can put them in a competitive setting, that might be something, but that's not something that happens at high picks," he added.
In choosing Edgecombe, the Sixers opted for him over other notable prospects such as Texas guard Tre Johnson and Duke forward Kon Knueppel. Initially considering six potential targets for the third pick, Morey and his team narrowed it down before ultimately selecting Edgecombe.
Edgecombe's addition strengthens a backcourt led by All-Star Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain. The team is also prioritizing the return of restricted free agent Quentin Grimes, according to NBA insider reports. "I really like how things are shaping up," Morey remarked. "I think we'll have one of the best backcourts in the league with Grimes and Maxey and Jared McCain and now VJ."
With his athleticism and high energy, Edgecombe is expected to make an immediate impact defensively. His ability to be a lob threat in transition and his shooting skills—34% from beyond the arc last season—are additional assets. Analysts suggest that while his shooting is promising, his ball-handling and playmaking skills will require further development at the professional level.
A native of Bimini, Bahamas, Edgecombe represented his country in the FIBA Olympic qualifying tournament before attending Baylor, where he averaged 16.5 points, 3.8 assists, and 2.0 steals in four games. His high school career was equally impressive; he was a five-star recruit who played at Victory International Institute in Florida before transferring to Long Island Lutheran in New York.
During his junior year, Edgecombe secured a state championship and earned accolades such as New York Gatorade Player of the Year and National Interscholastic Basketball Conference Player of the Year. He capped off his high school career as a McDonald's All-American.
The Sixers also hold the No. 35 overall pick in the second round of this draft. They moved up two spots in the lottery to secure their selection ahead of the Oklahoma City Thunder.
