After a dazzling freshman campaign at Baylor, VJ Edgecombe is projected to be a top-five pick in the 2025 NBA draft on June 25-26 in Brooklyn, New York.

Edgecombe was the Big 12 Freshman of the Year, averaging 15 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 2.1 steals on 34% shooting from 3-point range. He finished in double figures 27 times, including a season-high 30 points on Jan. 22 in a win over Kansas State.

The 6-foot-5 guard is most commonly projected to be drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers or Charlotte Hornets with the third and fourth picks, respectively. He is expected to be heavily considered by the Hornets if he is still on the board, according to Kevin O’Connor of Yahoo Sports.

Edgecombe had an excellent interview with the Hornets, league sources said. And while there are no locks, plenty of executives believe he’s the favorite if he makes it to the fourth pick. 

Edgecombe is viewed as one of the most athletic players in the draft this year and was an offensive force when getting downhill, thanks to his ability to create for himself and stretch the floor from beyond the arc. He also projects to be able to affect games at a high level on defense.

The 19-year-old participated in the combine earlier this month, measuring in with a 6-foot, 7 1/2-inch wingspan. He also registered a 38 1/2-inch max vertical jump, tied for the ninth-highest mark among all participants this year in Chicago, Illinois.

After missing out on the chance to have the top pick this year, the Hornets figure to land either Edgecombe or Ace Bailey in the draft. The two players both project to fit well with the roster and should help the team next year and beyond.