VJ Edgecombe’s Explosive Summer League Debut: Is This the Rise of the Next 76ers Star?

What matters most, especially for Bailey, is not this game, but how much he improves. Does he look better by Game 3 of Summer League? Is he learning?

Edgecombe put on a show in his Summer League debut, scoring 28 points, showing his explosiveness (particularly in transition), the fluidity of his game, his pull-up jumper, his playmaking, and he played good defense (for Summer League). Edgecombe’s game is well-suited for the glorified pick-up game that is Summer League, and he showcased his skills.When the dust settled on draft night, VJ Edgecombe landing at No. 3 to Philadelphia was no curveball to those who had him penciled in top three — and boy, did he back up that belief in his Summer League debut. Lighting up the court with 28 points, Edgecombe displayed an electrifying blend of speed, smooth shot-making, and the kind of playmaking that instantly grabs your attention. Transition offense? Check. A silky pull-up jumper? Absolutely. Defense? Surprisingly stout for a Summer League setting. It’s clear his game fits this playground-style competition like a glove, and he took full advantage. Meanwhile, the Utah Jazz’s fifth pick, Ace Bailey, found himself struggling to get his shot off against the relentless Edgecombe defense, converting just 3-of-13 attempts and wrestling with his handle under pressure. Yet Bailey’s off-ball movement showcased flashes that could prove valuable as the season unfolds under Coach Will Hardy’s guidance. The real story for Bailey, however, is growth. Can he evolve by game three, sharpen his skills, and make the leap that Summer League demands? Only time will tell. LEARN MOREThis is why the majority of teams had VJ Edgecombe third on their draft boards, and why Philadelphia took him at No. 3.Edgecombe outdueled the Utah Jazz’s No. 5 pick Ace Bailey, who scored 8 points in 3-of-13 shooting. Bailey struggled when he had to create his own shot, but that’s not a surprise, given that it was known he had to work on his handle, and he’s not the athlete Edgecombe is to create space. However, Bailey looked good working off the ball, something Jazz coach Will Hardy could take advantage of during the season.