Player Profile - VJ Edgecombe

VJ Edgecombe (affectionally known as “The Generator”) has already had an incredible start to the 25-26 NBA season, with a record-breaking performance against the Celtics in his debut game, and many more exceptional performances since. But how did he get to the NBA, and what’s in store for the future?

(Image credit to Bleacher Report, 2025)

“Getting to the NBA is hard. Getting to the NBA from Bimini? I don’t know the exact odds, but it’s gotta be like 0.000001% chance. That’s probably not even enough zeros, to be honest.” (Edgecombe for the Players Tribune)

VJ describes his childhood as “not having everything they wanted, but having everything they needed.” Growing up on the 23km² island of Bimini, Edgecombe recalls spending most of his time outside, as his home didn’t have any electricity during the day. He remembers cutting up old milk crates to use as basketball hoops when he was younger, sparking his passion for basketball early on. 

He often speaks of the values his mother and grandmother instilled in him and how they have influenced his career. He recalls learning manners and respect from his mom, and how it has helped him get far in life. He also remembers learning discipline from an early age and how that has been vital in his basketball career.

With the 3rd overall pick in the NBA draft, the Sixers chose VJ Edgecombe. It was an unexpected choice, as many people thought that 19-year-old Ace Bailey would’ve been their pick. But Edgecombe didn’t waste a single second in proving that they made the right choice. 

In just two summer league games, he averaged 21.5 points, 8 rebounds and 2 steals. In a game against Utah Jazz and their new player, Ace Bailey, Edgecombe secured 28 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, a steal and 2 blocks. 

In his NBA debut, Edgecombe scored 38 points, making him the third-highest scoring rookie in NBA debut history and the highest scoring 76ers rookie on their debut. Additionally, he also broke the record for the most points scored in the first quarter by a rookie, with 14 points.

After a poor finish in the 2024/25 season, VJ Edgecombe has become a beacon of hope for this season, with his incredible performances boosting the team to new heights.

Along with his sheer talent and ability to manipulate the court to his advantage, his fresh perspective and humility is the refresh that the 76ers have been in such desperate need of in order to progress this season and have a chance at winning the championship.

“My family used to live off a generator,

Now I play for the Philadelphia 76ers.” 

• VJ Edgecombe

Article written by Milla Sinfield