UPDATE: Philadelphia 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe electrified fans on October 25, 2023, scoring an impressive 34 points in his NBA debut, leading the team to a thrilling 117-116 victory over the Boston Celtics. This performance marks the most points scored in an NBA debut since Wilt Chamberlain recorded 43 points in 1959, and the third-highest all-time debut score.
Edgecombe’s exceptional start also shattered the franchise record for debut points, previously held by Allen Iverson at 30 points. The rookie shone brightly alongside teammate Tyrese Maxey, who topped the night with a game-high 40 points. Together, they combined for 74 points, tying for the second-most by a duo in an NBA season opener, just shy of the 75 points scored by James Harden and Christian Wood in 2020.
The Sixers found themselves in a nail-biting finish, leading by four points with just 22 seconds left in the game. However, Edgecombe missed two critical free throws with 9.1 seconds on the clock, allowing the Celtics a chance to snatch victory. Payton Pritchard had two attempts to win the game but failed to convert, sealing the Sixers’ narrow win.
Returning to the court for the first time since February, Joel Embiid struggled, scoring only four points on 1-of-9 shooting in his 20 minutes of play. The reigning MVP, who faced multiple injuries last season, is expected to gradually regain his form. Meanwhile, Jaylen Brown made a strong comeback from a hamstring injury, contributing 25 points for the Celtics, who were without fellow All-Star Jayson Tatum due to a ruptured Achilles tendon.
The Celtics, initially down by five, surged ahead in the third quarter with a spectacular 16-point run, establishing an 11-point lead. However, the Sixers regrouped, scoring eight consecutive points to tighten the score.
The gripping matchup emphasizes the rising star power in the NBA, particularly with Edgecombe’s record-breaking debut. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the season unfolds to see if Edgecombe can maintain this momentum.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the NBA season progresses.
