The Tribune

By JONATHAN BURROWS

Tribune Sports Reporter

jburrows@tribunemedia.net

Valdez “V.J.” Edgecombe has already made an impression on one of his newest teammates who just so happens to also be one of the greatest players in NBA history.

LeBron James, now entering his first season with the Philadelphia 76ers, has spent the early part of his time with the team getting familiar with a new group of teammates, including the 20 year old Edgecombe.

And James has taken notice of what the Bahamian guard brings to the 76ers.

Speaking on the Mind the Game podcast, James praised Edgecombe for the confidence and maturity he displayed during his rookie season, while also pointing to areas where he believes the young guard can continue to develop.

“They say he was actually one of the leaders of the team as a 20-year-old rookie, and not in a disrespectful manner,” James said. “It’s not like he was just speaking just to be speaking or thinking he’s better than this guy. No, it’s just that they say he speaks with an intelligent confidence.”

The comments carry plenty of weight coming from James, who has spent more than two decades in the NBA and has played alongside some of the league’s biggest stars.

Edgecombe showed that confidence during his first season in Philadelphia, averaging 16 points, 5.6 rebounds and 4.2 assists over 75 games.

The Bimini native quickly established himself as an important piece of the 76ers’ future, finishing third in the NBA Rookie of the Year voting and earning recognition for the way he handled the demands of his first professional season.

Now, Edgecombe enters his second year with an entirely different level of experience around him.

James and Jaylen Brown bring championship experience and Finals MVP credentials to Philadelphia, while Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid remain key pieces of the team.

James also made it clear that he sees considerable room for growth in Edgecombe’s game.

“He’s a guy that, you know, you got to put all the pieces together, but he’s a guy that still has leaps to make, you know, with his athleticism, shot-making, defense,” James said.

That assessment reflects both the praise and expectations surrounding Edgecombe heading into his second NBA season.

The Bahamian guard has already demonstrated that he can contribute at the highest level. His rookie numbers came while playing alongside other established players, and his ability to impact games went beyond scoring.

With James now joining the roster, Edgecombe will have another veteran voice to learn from as the 76ers begin a new chapter.

There is also an expectation that Edgecombe’s statistical production could change as he adjusts to playing alongside James, Brown, Maxey and Embiid. His role could become more defined within a team featuring several established offensive options.

Still, James’ early assessment provides a significant endorsement of the young Bahamian.

Being recognised by one of basketball’s all time greats before even entering his second season is another indication of the regard in which he is already held around the 76ers.

And while James sees areas where Edgecombe must continue to improve, his comments also make clear that the young Bahamian has already earned his attention.