Philadelphia 76ers guard VJ Edgecombe looks on during a Summer League game.Credit: Getty Images

'I’ve Been Learning a Lot From Him' – Philadelphia 76ers Rookie Calls Tyrese Maxey His New Mentor

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Jordan Samar | Last updated Aug 23, 2025 10:00 AM ET

The Philadelphia 76ers finished nearly at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings last season. But something good came from it in the form of VJ Edgecombe, whom they selected with the third overall pick in this year’s NBA Draft.

After doing well for the Philadelphia 76ers in the Summer League, the former Baylor guard said he has spent the past few weeks being around Tyrese Maxey.

“He’s a great person,” Edgecombe said about Maxey during training camp. “Always smiling and always happy. I’ve been learning a lot from him. We’ve been working out early mornings. Someone to help me learn and help me get better.”

Jan 12, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey (0) goes to the basket during the second quarter against the Orlando Magic at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images

As things stand, the Philadelphia 76ers are loaded at the guard position. Besides Maxey and Edgecombe, the team still has Jared McCain and veterans Kyle Lowry and Eric Gordon.

Philadelphia 76ers’ young core draws huge praise from analyst

Long-time ESPN analyst Ramona Shelburne shared a positive outlook for the Philadelphia 76ers this upcoming season, citing their revamped roster, during a recent appearance on NBA Today. She is particularly excited about the team’s young pieces, especially if they mesh well with the veterans.

Apr 12, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) and guard Tyrese Maxey (0) stand together during a break in action in the fourth quarter against the Orlando Magic at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

“I’ll say this. All the videos I see, all the word I get out of Philly is that Tyrese Maxey, and McCain, and the younger guys in VJ Edgecombe, they’ve all been in the gym all summer long,” Shelburne said.

“Embiid, Paul George missed a lot of time last year. That young group, they may not wait. They may not be able to wait,” she added.