UPDATE: Buddy Hield is praising his young protégé, VJ Edgecombe, just days before the highly anticipated showdown between the Golden State Warriors and the Philadelphia 76ers on October 27, 2025. Hield, a veteran of the NBA and a proud representative of Bahamian basketball, believes that Edgecombe, the No. 3 overall pick in the recent draft, is poised to become a star in the league.
Edgecombe, only 20 years old, is making waves as a rookie, averaging 15.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. His impressive stats come in just under 36.4 minutes of play each night, showcasing his vital role in the Sixers’ surprising competitiveness this season. Hield, who has been mentoring Edgecombe since he was a teenager, expressed confidence in his potential to claim the Rookie of the Year title.
“This kid is homegrown, he’s self-grown, he’s that guy,” Hield told the Bay Area News Group, dismissing the notion that his guidance is solely responsible for Edgecombe’s success. As the two prepare to meet on the court, the stakes are high, not just for the game but for the future of Bahamian basketball.
Hield has been closely watching Edgecombe’s journey since he first met the rising star at a basketball camp in the Bahamas over seven years ago. Edgecombe’s transition to the U.S. for high school and his subsequent dominance at Baylor have only solidified his status as a top prospect. Hield’s unwavering support was evident on draft night, where he was present to cheer for Edgecombe, a gesture that the rookie cherished.
“He’s my dog,” Edgecombe stated, reflecting on Hield’s commitment to his career. “Buddy came to the draft. He pulled up just to show love. It means a lot and that goes a long way.”
As the Sixers gear up for the game, they are optimistic about their future, especially with Tyrese Maxey emerging as a formidable lead guard alongside Edgecombe. Despite concerns surrounding Joel Embiid’s health, the team’s trajectory looks promising, underscoring the significance of this matchup.
Hield’s faith in Edgecombe goes beyond mere statistics; he envisions a bright future for the young player within today’s NBA landscape. “I knew that once he got to the NBA, once he got that space and was surrounded by great players, he was going to be just fine,” Hield remarked.
Fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating how Edgecombe will fare against his mentor’s team. With the clock ticking down to game time, the excitement builds not only for the thrilling basketball showdown but also for the ongoing narrative of mentorship and talent development in professional sports.
Stay tuned for this unfolding story as the Warriors face off against the 76ers—a pivotal moment for both players and teams alike. Will Edgecombe rise to the occasion, or will Hield’s Warriors steal the spotlight?
