Philadelphia 76ers rookie V.J. Edgecombe has taken the league by storm. Two weeks into the 2025–26 season, he looks like a seasoned veteran, not a 20-year-old fresh out of Baylor. Averaging 20.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game on nearly 50 percent shooting, the third overall pick has quickly become a foundational piece of the Sixers’ 5-1 start, which is the best record in the Eastern Conference.
Edgecombe isn’t just leading all rookies in scoring; he’s setting the tone for Philadelphia’s high-energy offense alongside Tyrese Maxey. His mix of athleticism, maturity, and composure has caught the attention of fans and executives alike, but according to his agent, those traits did not develop by accident.
A Mindset Built for the NBA
Thad Foucher of Wasserman, who represents Edgecombe, believes his client’s drive mirrors that of another star he once worked with. “His personality is different from anybody that I’ve been around,” Foucher said in a one-on-one interview, per Forbes. “His work ethic, athleticism, and seriousness about the game remind me of Russell Westbrook. Russell will not allow himself to fail, and V.J. is the same way. He will will himself into positive situations just like Russell did.”
That mentality has helped Edgecombe adjust quickly to the NBA grind. He recently experienced his first back-to-back set, playing nearly 80 minutes across two nights against the Orlando Magic and Washington Wizards. It was his first real test of endurance at the professional level.
“Obviously, it’s a different routine in that second game, but it was tough for me personally,” Edgecombe admitted after the team’s loss to Boston, Sixers Wire reports. “Forty minutes back-to-back, I don’t know if I can prepare myself for that, but I’m glad I had to go through it. Now I know how to approach the second game.”
Even through fatigue, Edgecombe continues to perform at a high level, becoming the Sixers’ second-leading scorer behind Maxey. Together, the duo averages more than 54 points per game, keeping Philadelphia among the most dangerous teams in the league despite Joel Embiid’s minutes restriction and Paul George’s ongoing recovery.
From Bimini to the Bright Lights
Edgecombe’s maturity stands out in every interview and interaction, and Foucher says that is rooted in where he grew up. The rookie was born and raised in Bimini, Bahamas, before moving to the United States in ninth grade.
“I don’t think his maturity is a mistake,” Foucher explained. “I went down to Bimini, where he’s from, and it’s totally different than anywhere in the States. Everybody talks to each other. You don’t see people glued to their phones. It’s what America used to be 50 years ago.”
That upbringing, Foucher says, shaped Edgecombe’s ability to connect with people, a trait that separates him from most young players. “His ability to communicate and talk to people, not just his peers but older folks too, is something he brought from home. That’s why he seems so mature. He’s had experiences most of our American players haven’t.”
Edgecombe’s debut was historic, with 34 points, the most by a player in his first NBA game since Wilt Chamberlain in 1959. But his agent believes that is only the beginning. “I think he could be the best player in this class when it’s all said and done,” Foucher said. “He has all the tools and measurables to be an unbelievable player at the next level.”
As the Sixers begin another demanding road stretch, Edgecombe continues to seek wisdom from veterans. “Everyone’s been through back-to-backs,” he said. “They all tell me different things they do to get ready, so I’m experimenting to see what works best for me.”
With his mindset, maturity, and mentorship, V.J. Edgecombe’s rise looks less like a flash and more like the foundation of a long NBA career.
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