On a recent appearance on the Underdog podcast, former Baylor star VJ Edgecombe delivered a surprising critique of the college game: he says he hates college basketball, mainly because of the way players are spaced on the court.
Edgecombe’s blunt take is drawing attention, given how leagues like the NCAA still emphasize traditional spacing and set plays. His game, while incredibly dynamic, is geared more towards thriving in the NBA rather than the college game, whose structure stifles the kind of open-court athleticism he excels in.
“VJ Edgecombe says he HATES college basketball because of the lack of spacing”
— Underdog (@Underdog) July 28, 2025
(Via @PodcastPShow) pic.twitter.com/RmUaqLqQ0J
Edgecombe arrived at Baylor after a standout prep career in the Bahamas. He quickly became known for his explosive scoring, elite rim attacks, strong defense, and transition pace. As a freshman, he averaged 15 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.1 steals, showcasing a blend of speed and thunderous athleticism that college schemes often bottlenecked rather than unleashed.
During the podcast, he acknowledged his frustration with half-court sets and stagnant positioning. His message: let the game breathe. College offenses, he suggested, focus too much on structure and not enough on flow and spacing that would allow players with size-speed like his to get in stride.
In the NBA, Edgecombe’s trajectory seems tailor-made for the faster, more free-style, a place where spacing is premium, motion is constant, and athletic wings from programs like Baylor thrive. If his college criticism is any indication, he’s ready for more freedom at the next level.
For Baylor fans and Big 12 followers wondering how top wings translate to the pros, Edgecombe’s podcast rant offers clarity. He may be done with the college version of the game, but he could shine brightest when the court opens up.
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