Philadelphia’s newest backcourt weapon isn’t wasting time endearing himself to Sixers fans.
At his introductory press conference alongside second-rounder Johni Broome, rookie guard VJ Edgecombe made it clear he’s embracing the grind—and the city’s famed intensity.
“I’m just super excited to be here,” Edgecombe said. “I don’t got much to say—I’m just ready to go play some basketball.”
The Baylor product, drafted third overall, already has a head start on bonding with teammates. He spent his first 48 hours in Philly “just getting to know the whole team” and hunting for local eats (“if y’all got [food] recommendations, let me know”).
But Edgecombe’s focus quickly shifted to his on-court role. Though he hasn’t discussed specifics with coach Nick Nurse yet, he’s prepared to adapt.
“Whatever role they have me playing, I’m just willing to buy in,” he said.
Edgecombe’s tenacity on defense—a rarity for top draft picks—stood out during questioning. His philosophy? Simple.
“Growing up, if you wanted to play, you had to play defense,” he said. “I just hate to see people score, and I hate to lose… If I have to play defense the whole time, I love doing that.”
The Bahamian guard also opened up about using his NIL earnings to fund scholarships for students back home.
“I was in their shoes at one point,” Edgecombe explained. To avoid favoritism, he let schools select recipients while covering costs.
Edgecombe credited his time with the Bahamian national team—including an Olympic qualifying run—for accelerating his growth.
“It helped mature my game, helped me play with great players,” he said, noting the NBA’s spacing contrasts sharply with college ball.
Auburn standout Johni Broome, picked 35th, brings a polished, physical game. He sees himself as a modern big who can play both frontcourt spots.
“The league is kind of going… to two bigs a little bit,” Broome said. “Whatever they want me to play—four or five—I’m ready.”
Both rookies will debut in Summer League next month. Edgecombe’s immediate goal? “Watch everyone else work out… I can learn from anybody.”
For Philly fans, his humility and hustle are already a perfect match.
