VJ Edgecombe Eager to Learn From LeBron James After 76ers Move
Philadelphia 76ers youngster VJ Edgecombe is looking forward to one of the biggest learning opportunities of his young NBA career after LeBron James joined the team.
Edgecombe, who was selected No. 3 overall by Philadelphia in the 2025 NBA Draft, had already expressed excitement about the possibility of playing alongside James before the deal became official. During the summer, he said that getting the chance to share the court with LeBron would be “amazing.”
A Dream Opportunity for Edgecombe
For the 20-year-old guard, having a four-time NBA champion and one of the greatest players in basketball history as a teammate could provide invaluable experience.
LeBron’s influence extends far beyond scoring. His understanding of the game, playmaking, leadership and ability to read defenses could help Edgecombe develop into a more complete player.
The Sixers already view Edgecombe as a major part of their future. During his rookie season, he showed flashes of significant potential, particularly with his athleticism, ability to attack the basket and defensive energy.
Learning From an All-Time Great
One of the biggest benefits for Edgecombe could be learning how LeBron approaches preparation and leadership.
James has spent more than two decades adapting his game and succeeding alongside different generations of NBA stars. For a young player entering only his second professional season, that experience could be extremely valuable.
The 76ers now have a remarkable combination of youth and experience, with Edgecombe joining a core that includes LeBron James, Joel Embiid, Jaylen Brown and Tyrese Maxey.
LeBron Could Also Help His Offensive Development
Edgecombe’s rookie season demonstrated that he can create opportunities off the dribble, but he was also forced into a larger offensive role as injuries affected Philadelphia’s roster.
With LeBron now handling a significant amount of playmaking responsibility, Edgecombe could have more opportunities to attack defenses without constantly being responsible for creating the entire offense.
LeBron’s passing could also create easier scoring chances for Edgecombe through cuts, transition plays and opportunities around the basket.
A New Chapter for the 76ers
Philadelphia’s offseason has completely changed the team’s outlook. The addition of LeBron came after the blockbuster acquisition of Jaylen Brown, giving the Sixers one of the league’s most talented rosters.
But for Edgecombe, the move represents more than simply adding another superstar.
It gives a young player the chance to learn directly from an NBA icon while competing alongside some of the league’s biggest stars.
The Bottom Line
VJ Edgecombe now has a rare opportunity to learn from LeBron James while continuing his development in Philadelphia. Rather than viewing LeBron’s arrival simply as competition for touches, Edgecombe can benefit from playing alongside an elite playmaker and veteran leader. If he absorbs the lessons available to him, the partnership could play an important role in shaping the young guard’s NBA future.