In the NBA’s blockbuster regular season opener for 2025-26, VJ Edgecombe made major headlines of his own.
The Philadelphia 76ers rookie delivered a one-for-the-books performance this past Wednesday, registering 34 points, seven rebounds, three assists and a steal to carry his team's 117-116 road victory against the Boston Celtics.
His scoring output smashed several compelling records, as he surpassed Allen Iverson (30) for most points by a Sixer in his debut. And by expanding the scope league-wide, he now holds the third-highest right after Frank Selvy (35) and the late Wilt Chamberlain (43).
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What Edgecombe has shown against Boston is simply jaw-dropping. He flashed intense athleticism and quickness, while his finishing and slashing ability terrorized the Celtics’ perimeter and interior.
His showmanship made ESPN’s Tim MacMahon convinced that he is interestingly comparable to one of the greatest players of all time.
“Edgecombe reminds me of young Dwyane Wade,” the ESPN expert said on The Hoop Collective Podcast. “He's that combo guard size with more of a shooting guard game. He's such an explosive downhill attacking type of athlete.”
A young Dwyane Wade is an intriguing player comparison for Edgecombe. As it is, the Hall of Famer is a remarkable lethal slasher during his playing days and exhibited immense athleticism that made him a basketball superstar for the Miami Heat.
But what makes Edgecombe even more promising is his shooting. He is a highly accurate knockdown shooter and offensive threat, as he drained 5-of-13 of his shots beyond the arc against Boston.
As the Sixers aim to return to the league’s competitive picture, Edgecombe will be an instrumental piece for them to fulfill a redeeming season. Sky’s the limit for the 20-year-old as Philadelphia now has a new gem beyond Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
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