When the Philadelphia 76ers hosted the Chicago Bulls at Xfinity Mobile Arena on Wednesday, VJ Edgecombe was probably happy to see some of his teammates in uniform.
Joel Embiid returned from an oblique strain, while Paul George returned from a 25-game suspension for violating the league's drug policy. The 76ers made light work of the Bulls, 157–137, to return to the win column.
The Sixers bounced back from a 123-103 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder at home on Monday, leaving Edgecombe to lead the team as Embiid, George, Tyrese Maxey and Kelly Oubre Jr. were out.
The 20-year-old Edgecombe has learned to mature quickly while accepting the responsibilities of being a key member of the Philadelphia Phillies. He told Philly Sports Network how he has avoided the so-called rookie wall.
"It's all a mental thing. I try to stay mentally strong. I have a good group of guys around me. That helps with that. So I just try to stay mentally strong and enjoy it. I'm just enjoying the whole process. I haven't got time to just sit back and cope and get angry about anything," Edgecombe said.
VJ Edgecombe explains how he avoids the "newbie wall" 🏀🔥
(@CiavoNBA) pic.twitter.com/bwM2yI8PqA
— Philly Sports Network (@PhiladelphiaSN) 26 March 2026
He scored 22 points on 7-of-9 shooting against the Bulls, including 4-of-5 from long range. He added six rebounds and six assists.
The third overall pick is averaging 16.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.4 steals and will likely make the All-Rookie First Team.
Although he can be erratic at times, that's understandable for a young player finding his way in the NBA. The learning curve is high for Edgecombe, and he is ready to put in the work and learn more from his teammates.
