Bahamian basketball standout VJ Edgecombe is formally headed to the NBA after being chosen third general by the Philadelphia 76ers on the opening night time of the 2025 NBA Draft.
The 19-year-old guard, recognized for his athleticism and high-energy play, made a reputation for himself final summer time as a part of the Bahamian nationwide staff, suiting up alongside present NBA gamers and serving to elevate the profile of Caribbean basketball. Now, he’ll be a part of an elite franchise in Philadelphia, the place he’s anticipated to turn out to be a dynamic backcourt accomplice to All-Star Tyrese Maxey.
Edgecombe’s draft inventory soared following a formidable freshman season at Baylor College, the place he averaged 15.0 factors, 5.6 rebounds, and three.2 assists over 33 video games. He shot 43.6% from the sector, 34.0% from past the arc, and 78.2% from the free-throw line. His stellar play earned him Massive 12 Rookie of the Yr honors and spots on each the All-Massive 12 and Massive 12 All-Freshman groups.
Regardless of buzz surrounding the Sixers’ third choose, Edgecombe mentioned the second got here as a shock.
“No, I had no clue what was happening,” he informed ESPN.
“I used to be like, I’m simply dwelling within the second till they inform me that I’m going there once I was on the desk. Like 15 seconds earlier than they drafted me, earlier than the commissioner known as my identify. They didn’t inform me nothing. It was nonetheless up within the air about what was happening.”
Edgecombe is now one of many highest-drafted Bahamian gamers in NBA historical past, following within the footsteps of fellow countrymen like Deandre Ayton and Buddy Hield. His choice continues a robust wave of Caribbean expertise breaking into the league.
