The NBA is well and truly back. Contentious talking points, viral hot takes, and emotional early predictions are already flooding social media timelines. In the case of Philadelphia 76ers' fans, an intoxicating first-quarter performance against the Boston Celtics from VJ Edgecombe has left them in awe of what the future could hold for the exciting rookie.
In recent days, Philadelphia's head coach, Nick Nurse, has spoken about the jaw-dropping talent that Edgecombe possesses. But even with the impressive nature of performances throughout training camp and against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Sixers' preseason finale, nobody could have anticipated just how devastating the 20-year-old's entrance into the NBA would be.
Joel Embiid's return to action will be on the lips of most NBA analysts; however, VJ Edgecombe has done his utmost to steal the spotlight as he aims to become the league's next superstar.
VJ Edgecombe was unstoppable in the first quarter
Through one quarter of action, the young star recorded 14 points, while sinking five out of his nine field-goal attempts -- with three of these buckets coming from deep. In addition, Edgecombe registered two assists, showcasing his ability to contribute in multiple offensive areas.
Best first quarter of a first game for a rookie in a LONG time. Can’t remember this fast of a start before. And VJ Edgecombe is doing it in so many different ways too. Nasty.
— Kevin O'Connor (@KevinOConnor) October 23, 2025
Just minutes into his professional debut, the athletic wing was already oozing an unusual level of confidence as he took a pass from Quentin Grimes into his stride and aggressively attacked the basket, emphatically slamming the ball into the basket.
The rookie displayed his versatility moments later as his partner in crime, Tyrese Maxey, drew attention from two defenders and proceeded to kick the ball out to a wide-open Edgecombe, who drained the three-point shot with ease.
Edgecombe continued to add to his early-career highlight reel by putting the 2024 NBA Finals Most Valuable Player, Jaylen Brown, on a poster with another vicious dunk as he attempted to keep the Sixers within touching distance of the Celtics.
However, despite all the stunning moments that Philadelphia's debutant displayed in this first quarter, his composed mentality shone the brightest. For a young man who was making a deafening entrance into the league with his performance, Edgecombe refused to exhibit any overriding emotion and continued to get on with the job that is at hand -- taking down the Boston Celtics.
The Philadelphia 76ers' fan base will be praying that the opening quarter of VJ Edgecombe's professional career will continue on this enthralling trajectory. Nevertheless, they will be very aware that previous rookies have shown similar attributes, but seen their time in the City of Brotherly Love end in a turbulent fashion -- shoutout to Ben Simmons.