🏀 V.J. Edgecombe NBA Summer League Debut Outshines Ace Bailey in Utah
All eyes were on top-5 draft picks V.J. Edgecombe and Ace Bailey as they faced off in Utah during the NBA Summer League opener — but only one rose to the occasion. The No. 3 overall pick, V.J. Edgecombe, delivered a dominant all-around performance, posting 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists for the Philadelphia 76ers in a 93-89 loss to the Utah Jazz.
While Edgecombe lit up the stat sheet, Ace Bailey, selected fifth overall by Utah, had a more modest debut with 8 points on 3-of-13 shooting.
🚀 Edgecombe’s Star-Making Night: 28 Points & Dunk of the Game
Edgecombe looked every bit like a future star, combining athleticism, poise, and a high motor in his NBA Summer League debut.
🔹 Stat Line:
- Points: 28
- Rebounds: 10
- Assists: 4
- Highlight: A soaring poster dunk, already dubbed the “dunk of the night”
He stood out against seasoned Summer League talent, showcasing the same versatility and explosiveness that made him a top-3 pick.
“Edgecombe looked like the best player on a floor full of guys who saw NBA action last season.”
🎯 Ace Bailey’s Struggles in Summer League Debut
Expectations were high for Ace Bailey, especially given the pre-draft headlines surrounding him. Unfortunately, his NBA debut with the Jazz didn’t go as planned:
- Points: 8
- FG Shooting: 3-of-13
- Rebounds: 7
Despite a few flashes of potential, Bailey’s shot wasn’t falling, and he couldn’t match Edgecombe’s pace or polish.
🤔 The Backstory: Sixers Chose Edgecombe Over Bailey
Before the draft, Bailey was widely projected to go No. 3 to Philadelphia. However, the Sixers ultimately chose Edgecombe, who rewarded their faith immediately. Bailey, who declined to work out for any teams, reportedly had preferred destinations — but the Jazz took the chance at No. 5. V.J. Edgecombe NBA Summer League debut.
Though the game ended in a Utah win, Edgecombe’s performance may already justify the Sixers’ decision.
🧠 Other Notable Rookie Performances
🔸 Johni Broome (Sixers – 2nd Round Pick)
- Points: 13
- Rebounds: 5
- Solid in the paint, bringing energy off the bench.
🔸 Walter Clayton Jr. (Jazz – 18th Pick)
- Points: 9
- Assists: 6
- Rebounds: 3
- Showed great court vision and pace in limited minutes.
📺 What’s Next for Edgecombe and Bailey?
Both rookies will continue to build chemistry with their new teams during the Summer League in Utah and Las Vegas. Expect adjustments from Bailey in the next game, while Edgecombe’s rising profile could make him one of Summer League’s biggest breakout stars. V.J. Edgecombe NBA Summer League debut.
📌 Quick Recap
| Player | Team | Points | Rebounds | Key Moment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| V.J. Edgecombe | 76ers | 28 | 10 | Dunk of the Night |
| Ace Bailey | Jazz | 8 | 7 | Tough shooting night |
| Johni Broome | 76ers | 13 | 5 | Strong bench presence |
| Walter Clayton Jr. | Jazz | 9 | 3 | 6 assists off bench |
📚 FAQs
Q1: How did V.J. Edgecombe perform in his NBA Summer League debut?
✅ He posted 28 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, and the dunk of the night.
Q2: How did Ace Bailey play in his debut for the Jazz?
❌ Bailey struggled with shooting, scoring just 8 points on 3-of-13.
Q3: Why didn’t the Sixers draft Ace Bailey?
🧐 Reports suggest he declined pre-draft workouts and the team preferred Edgecombe’s fit.
Q4: Where is the NBA Summer League being held?
📍 Utah (Salt Lake City) and later in Las Vegas.
