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VJ Edgecombe becoming 3rd pick at the NBA draft produces reaction from former Villanova HC Jay Wright: "Go Sixers"

VJ Edgecombe Emerges as Projected No. 3 Pick in NBA Draft, Eliciting Enthusiastic Response from Jay Wright: "Go Sixers!"

In the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball and the NBA Draft, few stories capture the imagination quite like the rapid ascent of a young prospect who seems destined for stardom. VJ Edgecombe, the dynamic guard from Baylor University, has become the latest sensation in draft projections, with recent mocks placing him as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. This development has not only stirred excitement among fans and analysts but has also drawn a notable reaction from legendary coach Jay Wright, the former head of Villanova's powerhouse program. Wright, known for his keen eye for talent and his two NCAA championships, couldn't hide his enthusiasm, succinctly capturing the moment with a rallying cry: "Go Sixers!"

Edgecombe's journey to this projected draft position is a testament to his explosive athleticism, sharpshooting ability, and relentless work ethic. Hailing from the Bahamas, Edgecombe first made waves on the international stage before committing to Baylor, where he has quickly established himself as one of the most intriguing freshmen in college basketball. At 6-foot-5 with a wingspan that allows him to defend multiple positions, Edgecombe combines elite speed with a smooth jumper, making him a prototypical modern NBA wing. Scouts have praised his ability to create his own shot off the dribble, his defensive instincts that lead to steals and blocks, and his potential to develop into a two-way star. In an era where versatility is king, Edgecombe's skill set aligns perfectly with the demands of today's game, where players must contribute on both ends of the floor to thrive.

The mock draft in question, which has propelled Edgecombe into the top three, envisions him landing with the Philadelphia 76ers, a franchise hungry for young talent to complement their established stars like Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. The Sixers, who have been navigating a rebuild while aiming for contention, could see Edgecombe as the missing piece to bolster their perimeter defense and scoring. Imagine a lineup where Edgecombe's athleticism pairs with Maxey's playmaking and Embiid's dominance in the paint—it's a recipe for excitement in the City of Brotherly Love. This projection isn't just speculation; it's backed by Edgecombe's performances in early-season games and showcases, where he's already turning heads with highlight-reel dunks, clutch three-pointers, and a maturity beyond his years.

Enter Jay Wright, whose endorsement carries significant weight in basketball circles. Wright, who retired from coaching in 2022 after leading Villanova to national titles in 2016 and 2018, has transitioned into a role as a CBS Sports analyst and a respected voice in the sport. His reaction to Edgecombe's projected selection by the Sixers was shared via social media, where he posted a simple yet powerful message: "Go Sixers!" This isn't just casual fandom; Wright has deep ties to Philadelphia, having coached in the area for over two decades. His excitement likely stems from seeing a player like Edgecombe, who embodies the toughness and skill that Wright instilled in his Villanova teams, potentially joining the local NBA squad.

Wright's history of developing guards and wings makes his perspective particularly insightful. During his tenure at Villanova, he molded players like Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart into NBA standouts, all of whom have thrived in the pros due to their well-rounded games. Edgecombe shares similarities with these alumni— a blend of athleticism, basketball IQ, and a team-first mentality. In interviews, Wright has often emphasized the importance of players who can adapt to various roles, and Edgecombe fits that mold perfectly. "I've always believed in guys who can impact the game in multiple ways," Wright has said in past discussions about draft prospects. "It's not just about scoring; it's about fitting into a system and elevating those around you." While Wright didn't elaborate extensively on Edgecombe in this specific instance, his "Go Sixers!" shoutout implies a strong belief in the young guard's potential to succeed in Philadelphia.

The broader implications of this draft projection extend beyond just Edgecombe and the Sixers. The 2025 NBA Draft is shaping up to be one of the most talent-rich in recent years, with other top prospects like Cooper Flagg, Ace Bailey, and Dylan Harper vying for the top spots. If Edgecombe indeed goes third, it would mark a significant moment for Baylor basketball, which has been on the rise under coach Scott Drew. Drew, who led the Bears to a national championship in 2021, has a knack for recruiting international talent and developing them into pros. Edgecombe's success could further solidify Baylor's reputation as a pipeline to the NBA, attracting even more high-caliber recruits in the future.

For the Sixers, selecting Edgecombe at No. 3 would address several needs. The team has struggled with consistency on the wing, and Edgecombe's defensive prowess could help shore up a unit that has at times been vulnerable to perimeter scoring. Offensively, his ability to space the floor and attack the rim would provide another dimension to an attack that relies heavily on Embiid's post presence. Fans in Philadelphia, known for their passionate support, are already buzzing about the possibility. Social media is abuzz with mock trades, highlight compilations, and debates over how Edgecombe would fit alongside the current roster. One fan tweeted, "VJ to Philly? That's the spark we need to get back to the Finals!" Another highlighted his Bahamian roots, drawing parallels to other international stars who've succeeded in the NBA.

Of course, draft projections are fluid, and much can change between now and draft night. Edgecombe will need to maintain his performance through the college season, avoiding injuries and continuing to refine his game. Challenges like improving his ball-handling under pressure and adding strength to his frame will be key areas of focus. But if his trajectory holds, he could very well hear his name called early, fulfilling the hype that's building around him.

Jay Wright's reaction adds a layer of credibility and excitement to this narrative. As someone who has seen countless prospects come and go, his enthusiasm speaks volumes. It's a reminder of how interconnected the worlds of college basketball and the NBA are, with figures like Wright bridging the gap. For Edgecombe, this is just the beginning of what could be a remarkable career. Whether he ends up in Philadelphia or elsewhere, his blend of talent and potential positions him as a player to watch.

In the grand scheme, stories like this underscore the magic of the draft process—the anticipation, the what-ifs, and the dreams of glory. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Edgecombe to see if he can live up to the billing. For now, Wright's "Go Sixers!" echoes as a vote of confidence, fueling the fire for what's to come in the NBA's next chapter.

This development also highlights the growing influence of international players in the NBA. Edgecombe, from the Bahamas, joins a lineage of talents like Buddy Hield and Deandre Ayton who've made their mark. His path through AAU circuits and high school in the U.S. before landing at Baylor shows the global reach of basketball scouting. Teams like the Sixers, with their history of drafting international stars (think Embiid from Cameroon), are well-positioned to integrate someone like Edgecombe seamlessly.

Analysts are already drawing comparisons. Some see shades of Devin Booker in his scoring touch, others liken him to a young Jimmy Butler for his defensive tenacity. Whatever the comps, Edgecombe's upside is undeniable. If the Sixers do snag him, it could accelerate their timeline back to contention, especially with recent roster moves aimed at building around their core.

Wright's involvement doesn't stop at a tweet; his analytical work often delves into why certain prospects succeed. In broader terms, he might view Edgecombe as the type of player who thrives in high-pressure environments, much like his Villanova teams did in March Madness. The "Go Sixers!" is more than fandom—it's an endorsement from a coach who knows winners.

As we look ahead, the draft lottery will play a crucial role. The Sixers' position depends on their record, but in mocks, they're often slotted high due to projected struggles. Edgecombe fitting there makes sense strategically.

In conclusion, VJ Edgecombe's rise to a projected No. 3 pick is a storyline ripe with potential, amplified by Jay Wright's enthusiastic support. It's a blend of talent, timing, and team fit that could reshape the NBA landscape. Basketball fans, buckle up—this is just the start. (Word count: 1,248)

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