Philadelphia 76ers select VJ Edgecombe with third overall pick

The Philadelphia 76ers had the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NBA draft held on June 25, 2025, after a season that did not meet the team's expectations. The Sixers aimed to add a promising talent to their roster, and the draft featured several top prospects, including Ace Bailey from Rutgers, Dylan Harper, and VJ Edgecombe from Baylor. While Bailey was projected to be selected earlier, the Sixers opted for Edgecombe, a former five-star recruit who was known for his athleticism and ability to impact both ends of the floor. Edgecombe, standing 6-foot-4, showcased a high motor during his time in college and was named Big 12 Freshman of the Year, averaging 15 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.1 steals with the Baylor Bears. The draft decision came after extensive evaluations of potential candidates and the Sixers' internal assessments of their roster needs. Recently, Edgecombe had the only known pre-draft workout with the Sixers, which gave the team insights into his capabilities. Despite appearing nervous during his workout, he impressed during interviews, indicating that he has the potential to develop into a key player for the Sixers. The selection aims to bolster the Sixers' backcourt, which already features prominent players like Tyrese Maxey. In addition to securing Edgecombe with the third pick, the Sixers also held the No. 35 overall pick, which they used to select Ryan Kalkbrenner, a center from Creighton, who was recognized for his defensive skills. This move reflects the Sixers' commitment to building a balanced and competitive team for the upcoming seasons. Overall, the draft signifies a strategic effort by the Philadelphia 76ers to re-establish themselves as contenders in the Eastern Conference. By selecting VJ Edgecombe, the team is looking to invest in youthful talent with high upside, while also seeking to integrate these new players into their existing framework for improvement down the road.