76ers Select Baylor Guard VJ Edgecombe With No. 3 Overall Pick in NBA Draft

The Philadelphia 76ers have selected Baylor guard VJ Edgecombe with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NBA draft.

Edgecombe filled up the stat sheet in his lone season at Baylor. The 19-year old averaged 15.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 2.1 steals and 0.6 blocks per game. His production in college earned him both Big 12 All-Freshman Team and Big 12 Rookie of the Year honors.

What makes Edgecombe a special player? He is an elite defender who also possesses top-end athleticism. Edgecombe, a native of The Bahamas, has the versatility to defend both away from the ball and at the point of attack. His quick hands and anticipation give him a unique ability to force turnovers, as evidenced by his 2.1 steals per game in college.

While Edgecombe will excel defensively, he also has the tools to come in and immediately contribute offensively. His quick first step and explosive leaping ability make him a dangerous threat to score at the rim. He will thrive using his speed to get out and attack in transition. Many will question his ability to effectively space the floor. He shot 34.0% from 3-point range at Baylor. However, a deeper dive into the numbers paint an optimistic picture. Edgecombe knocked down 36.3% of his catch-and-shoot 3-pointers in addition to shooting 78.2% from the free-throw line. His playmaking ability is also underrated as he is capable of reading the floor and successfully operating the offense. He will not blow anyone away with his passing ability, but the potential is there for him to be an effective secondary playmaker.

Edgecombe has the versatility to play minutes at both shooting guard and small forward. He measured in at the combine at 6-foot-4 without shoes and has a 6-foot-7 1/2 wingspan. There is no doubt he has the defensive skills to guard some forwards. However, he will have to bulk up in order to more successfully match up against most NBA small forwards. If he can add muscle while maintaining his current skillset, Edgecombe could develop into being a similar player to either Jrue Holiday or Victor Oladipo.

He has an intriguing fit on the Sixers. His two-way ability matches him up well next to either Tyrese Maxey or Jared McCain. Making lineups work with all three on the floor will require Edgecombe to successfully scale up defensively against smaller forwards.

There will be some who question Edgecombe’s ability to ultimately reach his full potential. He possesses an intense work ethic and strong character. Both of those traits paint a positive picture of his ability to gradually improve his skillset.

All told, the Sixers are adding a versatile player with plus athletic tools and a high motor. Philadelphia will quickly grow to love what Edgecombe provides on the floor. Regardless of if Edgecombe hits his ceiling, he should have a long, successful career in the NBA.