VJ Edgecombe made a remarkable entrance into the NBA by shattering a long-standing record during his debut with the Philadelphia 76ers. In a thrilling season opener against the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night, Edgecombe scored 14 points in the first 12 minutes, breaking LeBron James’ record for the most points in the first quarter of an NBA debut. James had previously set the benchmark at 12 points during his inaugural game with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003.
Edgecombe’s impressive performance did not end there. He concluded the game with an impressive total of 34 points and seven rebounds, shooting 13 of 26 from the field, including 5 of 13 from three-point range. This scoring output marked the highest points in an NBA debut since 1974 and placed him third on the all-time list for debut scoring. The legendary Wilt Chamberlain holds the debut record with 43 points, scored back in 1959.
The journey to this record-breaking game had a slow start for the 20-year-old. After making just one free throw in the opening minutes, he didn’t secure his first field goal until midway through the first quarter with an electrifying dunk. This moment clearly ignited his performance, as he then tallied the next eight points for his team, which included two three-pointers and another dunk to reach double digits shortly after. His ability to hit a crucial three-pointer late in the first quarter allowed him to not only tie the game but also etch his name in the record books by surpassing James.
By the end of the first quarter, Edgecombe had already gone 5 of 9 from the field, hitting three shots from beyond the arc. His journey to this point included a solid season at Baylor, where he averaged 15 points and 5.6 rebounds and earned All-Big 12 honors, leading the Bears to a respectable 24-11 record and a run to the second round of the NCAA tournament. The 76ers recognized his talent and made him the No. 3 overall pick in the NBA Draft earlier this year.
In the game, Tyrese Maxey emerged as the leading scorer for the 76ers, contributing 40 points, including seven three-pointers. For the Celtics, Jaylen Brown and Derrick White each scored 25 points, with Neemias Queta adding 17 points and eight rebounds.
While Edgecombe has a journey ahead to reach the heights achieved by James in his illustrious career, his extraordinary debut sets a promising tone for his future in the league. With such a historic start, fans and analysts alike are excited to see how he will continue to develop and contribute to the 76ers’ success.