Philadelphia 76ers guard VJ Edgecombe (77) and guard Tyrese Maxey (0)
Philadelphia 76ers guard VJ Edgecombe (77) and guard Tyrese Maxey (0)
Philadelphia 76ers rookie guard VJ Edgecombe played a significant role in the team’s 139-136 overtime win over the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday. He had 25 points, six rebounds, four assists and four steals, including a game-clinching 3-pointer in overtime. However, his performances in the two halves were night and day.
In the first, he already had three fouls, which limited his time on the floor. Edgecombe only had five points. However, he turned things up in the second half and scored 17 points, including three in overtime.
His aggressive play on the court was key to the 76ers’ win. After the contest, a confident Edgecombe spoke to the media about how the coaching staff’s trust encouraged him to take shots.
Philadelphia 76ers guard Vj Edgecombe (77)
“I was ready, to be honest,” Edgecombe said. “I barely played in the first half because I was in foul trouble… Our coach trust in me to make plays.”
The No. 3 pick has been phenomenal in his first year. Through 26 games, he has averaged 15.5 points, 5.4 rebounds and 4.0 assists. In the previous Kia Rookie Ladder, Edgecombe was fourth among first-year players to win the Rookie of the Year award. The former Baylor guard has been the reliable backcourt partner of All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey.
His strong play has compared him to Hall of Fame player Dwyane Wade. The Miami Heat legend sees his younger self in Edgecombe and mentioned how they both had a fearless approach in attacking the rim.
“A lot of similarities in just going downhill, being fearless as well. He’s a fearless player, he probably jumps a little higher than me,” Wade said.
Being compared to Wade early in his career is a significant feat. Especially now that he’s shown that he can lead a team in clutch situations.