VJ Edgecombe doesn’t carry himself like your typical 19-year-old rookie. Maybe that’s because before hearing his name called on draft night, the Philadelphia 76ers’ No. 3 overall pick got a dose of perspective from one of the NBA’s most respected veterans.
In the days before the 2025 NBA Draft, four-time champion Klay Thompson sent Edgecombe a message that stuck.
“Enjoy the journey,” Thompson told him.
“He was like, ‘You’re gonna win championships and all that, but draft night? That’s the best time. You only do that once,’” Edgecombe recalled during an appearance on Paul George’s Podcast P show. “He won four rings, and even he said to just stay in the gym and enjoy it.”
Klay Thompson’s Words Helped VJ Edgecombe Slow Down
For a player whose rise accelerated quickly during his sophomore season at Baylor—where he averaged 15.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists—Edgecombe said Thompson’s advice helped him embrace the moment rather than rush into proving something.
And in a league that often rewards short-term results over long-term development, that grounding message hit home. Thompson’s guidance extended beyond a one-off text or handshake backstage.
The two shared court time in the lead-up to the draft, and Thompson didn’t take it easy. According to Edgecombe, the Golden State legend gave him a firsthand look at how steep the NBA learning curve can be.
“There were times I was hot, thinking I could compete,” Edgecombe said. “Then he hit a couple shots in a row and I was like, ‘Yeah… nothing I can do about that.’ But that’s what I needed. It gave me a target.”
Ready-Made Opportunity with the Philadelphia 76ers
Edgecombe’s NBA opportunity has come quickly. With both Joel Embiid and Paul George recovering from injuries to start the season, the 76ers will lean on their rookie guard more than most expected this early.
In limited Summer League action—cut short due to a minor thumb issue—Edgecombe showcased the all-around tools that made him a top-three pick. He dropped 28 points in a standout performance against the Utah Jazz, flashing his downhill explosiveness, defensive instincts, and a willingness to attack.
The shooting, though, remains a work in progress. He shot 34% from three in college, including 36.3% on catch-and-shoot looks, but showed inconsistency from deep during Summer League.
Still, Philadelphia is confident in his upside—and Edgecombe knows where to turn for help.
Looking to Klay Thompson and Buddy Hield as Shooting Mentors
Thompson’s impact may not end with pre-draft encouragement. Edgecombe says he’s open to keeping that connection going as he works on the more technical parts of his game, especially perimeter shooting.
He’s also built a relationship with Buddy Hield, who shares Thompson’s reputation as one of the league’s premier outside threats.
“I try to learn from guys like that,” Edgecombe said. “Guys who’ve been around, made big shots, had long careers. That’s the blueprint.”
What Comes Next
Edgecombe isn’t just the latest top pick trying to carve out a role—he’s part of a changing Sixers team trying to stay competitive while preparing for what comes next. Tyrese Maxey’s rise has given the franchise another dynamic young piece, and Edgecombe could end up being the third foundational guard in that mix if his development tracks upward.
For now, though, he’s still leaning into that original message from Thompson.
“You only get one draft night,” he said. “After that, it’s all about the work—but I’m making sure I enjoy every step of it.”