### 76ers Make a Bold Move: Selecting V.J. Edgecombe with the No. 3 Pick in the 2025 NBA Draft The Philadelphia 76ers have made a significant decision in the 2025 NBA Draft by selecting V.J. Edgecombe, a freshman guard from Baylor, with the third overall pick. This choice comes after considerable speculation regarding potential trades and other candidates, including Rutgers star Ace Bailey. Edgecombe, who has been recognized for his explosive athleticism and impressive performance in college, is expected to bolster the 76ers' roster as they aim for an NBA championship in the upcoming season. His selection reflects the team's strategy to enhance their competitiveness immediately, especially alongside established stars like Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/2025-nba-draft-76ers-select-004032904.html][https://sports.yahoo.com/article/76ers-select-v-j-edgecombe-004259063.html]. ### Breakdown of the 76ers' Draft Strategy and Edgecombe's Profile 1. **Draft Context and Decision-Making** - The 76ers faced a pivotal moment with the No. 3 pick, weighing options between trading the pick or selecting a player. - Ace Bailey was initially a strong candidate but his refusal to meet with the team shifted focus to Edgecombe, who had a successful workout in Philadelphia [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/76ers_use_no_3_overall_pick_on_nba_drafts_most_explosive_athlete/s1_14822_42376113]. 2. **V.J. Edgecombe's Background** - Edgecombe, 19 years old, had a standout season at Baylor, earning accolades such as the Big 12 Freshman of the Year and a spot on the All-Big 12 Second Team. - He averaged **15.0 points**, **5.6 rebounds**, **3.2 assists**, and **2.1 steals** per game, showcasing his all-around capabilities [https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/baylor-bears/2025/06/25/baylors-vj-edgecombe-selected-no-3-overall-by-the-philadelphia-76ers-in-2025-nba-draft]. 3. **Fit with the 76ers' Roster** - Edgecombe's athleticism and skill set are expected to complement the existing roster, particularly with stars like Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. - His ability to finish above the rim and create highlight plays positions him as a dynamic addition to the team's offensive strategy [https://www.sportingnews.com/in/nba/philadelphia-76ers/news/76ers-roster-projection-vj-edgecombe-no-3-pick-embiid-maxey/1f108ed8bdcfa9eee651e4aa]. ### Supporting Evidence and Key Metrics - **Edgecombe's College Performance**: - **Points per Game**: 15.0 - **Rebounds per Game**: 5.6 - **Assists per Game**: 3.2 - **Steals per Game**: 2.1 - **Shooting Percentages**: 43.6% FG, 34.0% 3PT, 78.2% FT [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/76ers_use_no_3_overall_pick_on_nba_drafts_most_explosive_athlete/s1_14822_42376113]. - **Accolades**: - Big 12 Freshman of the Year - All-Big 12 Second Team [https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/baylor-bears/2025/06/25/baylors-vj-edgecombe-selected-no-3-overall-by-the-philadelphia-76ers-in-2025-nba-draft]. ### Conclusion: A Strategic Selection for Immediate Impact In summary, the Philadelphia 76ers' decision to select V.J. Edgecombe with the No. 3 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft is a strategic move aimed at enhancing their competitiveness for the upcoming season. 1. **Immediate Competitiveness**: Edgecombe's explosive athleticism and proven performance in college make him a valuable asset for the 76ers as they pursue an NBA championship. 2. **Roster Synergy**: His skills are expected to synergize well with existing stars, potentially elevating the team's overall performance. 3. **Future Potential**: With accolades and a strong college career, Edgecombe represents not just a short-term solution but also a long-term investment in the team's future success [https://6abc.com/post/nba-draft-2025-76ers-select-vj-edgecombe-no-3-pick/16848910][https://www.espn.co.uk/nba/story/_/id/45585265/76ers-select-baylor-vj-edgecombe-no-3-pick].