Long Island Lutheran Middle & High School, located approximately 30 miles from Madison Square Garden, is where VJ Edgecombe sharpened his basketball skills in his final two years before heading to college. On Friday night, he showcased his talent on one of the most prestigious stages in sports, facing off against the NBA Cup champion New York Knicks. Edgecombe delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 23 points, including a crucial seven during a tense stretch of the game. His stellar defense against Jalen Brunson, a top scorer in the league, further underscored his impact on the court.
Despite the high stakes of the game, the Sixers were not caught off guard by Edgecombe’s display of skill. Head coach Nick Nurse admitted to being slightly surprised but praised the young rookie’s talent and improvement. Tyrese Maxey, who returned to the lineup with 30 points after a brief hiatus, spoke of Edgecombe’s consistency, indicating that the rookie’s performance was expected rather than shocking.
Edgecombe’s confidence has been evident since the summer, as he has shown unwavering self-belief regardless of the game circumstances. Reflecting on his memorable debut in Madison Square Garden, he expressed his excitement, saying, “That was amazing, man. It was everything I expected it to be.”
The game also highlighted the prowess of Brunson, whose recent clutch performances had solidified his role as a pivotal figure for the Knicks. Despite being formidable, Edgecombe managed to contain Brunson effectively, showcasing his defensive acumen. He acknowledged the challenge of limiting Brunson’s influence while crediting his preparation and film study leading up to this significant matchup.
Edgecombe’s contributions were vital not only defensively but also offensively during critical moments, particularly in the third quarter when his scoring helped maintain a competitive edge against the Knicks. Coach Nurse noted the team’s improved chemistry during this time, attributing it partially to Edgecombe stepping up as a primary creator in light of Tyrese’s absence.
While admitting to a tendency to start slow in the third quarter, Edgecombe expressed his desire to be more aggressive throughout the entire game. In the final moments, he rose to the occasion, hitting key shots and securing important rebounds, which ultimately helped seal the victory against the Knicks.
Edgecombe’s journey through his rookie season has included notable highs and necessary adjustments, but his commitment remains unchanged. “I just try to play hard, to be honest. That’s the main thing: I want to win,” he stated, reflecting his dedication to contributing to his team’s success in any way possible. The promising start to his career could signal exciting developments for both Edgecombe and the Sixers as they progress through the season.