Philadelphia 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe shined in the Rising Stars at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles on Friday after leading Team Vince to the title.
For his strong performances in the mini-tournament, Edgecombe was the undefeated winner as MVP. In two games, he scored 23 points on 8-of-13 shooting, including 6-7 from three-point range, and seven rebounds.
He also hit game-winners in both games, underscoring his willingness to perform in pressure moments.
Fans praised the 20-year-old guard for his impressive performance at All-Star Weekend.
@PhillySports_V said, "VJ has that clutch gene that you can't teach. When the lights are the brightest, he plays his best."
@iamibTaihaj08 said, "VJ has put his name ahead of the greats."
@lukatroncic23 wrote, "We drafted Valdez Edgecombe Jr. I have literal tears in my eyes right now."
"Vince got a ring before Melo and T-Mac," @SeahawksNicca posted, referring to Vince Carter, Carmelo Anthony and Tracy McGrady, who were selected as Rising Stars coaches along with Austin Rivers.
@K1utchSzn commented, "VJ Edgecombe hit game-winners in both Rising Stars games. This guy chose All-Star Weekend to announce himself to the world."
Edgecombe joins Allen Iverson and Andre Iguodala as the 76ers' only players be named mvp Of rising stars.
"Vince, you know, he wanted me to be aggressive the whole time. I showed him that. I just tried to show him why he picked me as his first choice, which was a blessing," Edgecomb said in the postgame conference.
"I just tried to show him why he chose me as his first choice." @CastrolUSA Rising star MVP VJ Edgecombe will play for Vince Carter! pic.twitter.com/ZjcAjuZolp
- NBA (@NBA) 14 February 2026
The former Baylor standout also honored Carter with a T-shirt before Rising Stars.
Maybe the Slam Dunk Contest should be next for Edgecombe at All-Star Weekend.
