For any rookie, an NBA debut is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. For the Philadelphia 76ers rookie standout VJ Edgecombe, that first appearance became an unforgettable milestone.
During a recent appearance on the “Club 520” podcast, Edgecombe reflected on stepping onto the court for his very first NBA game.
“I ain’t going to lie,” Edgecombe said. “I’m going to be honest. I was like, I just got to get them up. Cuz I mean, I don’t want to be nervous. I’m already playing in TD garden. You know, Boston fans are a little crazy, too. So, I enjoyed it though. I ain’t going to lie. It was a good bump. That was a good bump.”
The 76ers selected VJ out of Baylor with the No. 3 overall pick in the NBA Draft. On draft night, Edgecombe became emotional, breaking down in tears as he thanked his mother for her unwavering support.
He quickly proved he belonged. In his debut, Edgecombe erupted for 14 points in the first quarter, surpassing LeBron James’ long-standing mark of 12 first-quarter points in a debut set 22 years ago. He finished the night with 34 points, also breaking Allen Iverson’ franchise rookie debut record of 30 points for the 76ers.
VJ Edgecombe Opens Up About Sharing the Floor With Joel Embiid
During the appearance, VJ Edgecombe also spoke highly of his experience sharing the floor with Joel Embiid. He continued with a playful tone while discussing the challenge of guarding the dominant big man.
“Yo, That’s my n**** dog,” he said. “He’s cool as hell, bro. He just chill. He be in his own little world. Yo, I swear I never seen someone like really that good. Ain’t gonna lie.
“Man, I’m tellin’ him. I’m telling him. I was like, bro, if I was about 7’4″, I probably would’ve been able to guard him. But it’s like, he be throwing fouls and all type of different stuff going on, bro. Yeah. All right, now you can do.”
However, Edgecombe admitted that his most competitive moments have come against teammate Tyrese Maxey during practice.
“I’m going to be honest. That’s the first time I really lost ones, for real. That n***a can hoop, ain’t gonna lie. I didn’t even know he was that fast, bro. And he can shoot. All tough, man, Edgecombe said.
The rookie has delivered standout numbers this season, averaging 28.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game. His stellar production earned him an All-Star starting nod, and he was named the 2026 Rising Stars MVP after leading Team Vince to the tournament title.
The only other 76ers to win the Rising Stars MVP award are Allen Iverson and Andre Iguodala and now, VJ Edgecombe has added his name to that exclusive list.
