Sixers' Edgecombe, Thunder's McCain Share Mutual Respect After Game

The young NBA players formed a close bond during their time together in Philadelphia.

Mar. 24, 2026 at 11:04am

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Philadelphia 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe and Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jared McCain shared a heartfelt moment after their teams faced off, highlighting the strong friendship they developed while playing together in Philadelphia. Despite being on opposing sides, the two players expressed genuine happiness for each other's success and the close bond they've maintained.

Why it matters

The story showcases the importance of building supportive relationships in the NBA, especially for young players trying to establish themselves in the league. Edgecombe and McCain's friendship demonstrates the value of camaraderie and mentorship, which can be crucial for a player's development and well-being.

The details

Edgecombe and McCain became close friends during their time together on the Sixers, with McCain serving as a mentor and source of support for the rookie. After the game, the two exchanged warm words, with Edgecombe praising McCain's character, personality, and the joy he plays with. McCain reciprocated the sentiment, highlighting how Edgecombe has been there for him through tough times and calling him a "brother for life."

  • The game between the Sixers and Thunder took place on Monday, March 24, 2026.

The players

VJ Edgecombe

A rookie player for the Philadelphia 76ers who has developed a close friendship with Jared McCain.

Jared McCain

A guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder who previously played with Edgecombe on the Sixers and has maintained a strong bond with the young player.

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What they’re saying

“It was super great to see him, man. I'm super happy for him. We still talk here and there, but I'm glad to see him out there and having fun. He's really bonding with his teammates and stuff like that. I mean, if you don't bond with Jared, something may be wrong with you. I'm super excited for him. He made some shots tonight. He got hot early, but yeah, man. It's good to see him out there having fun. So, yeah. That's the main thing.”

— VJ Edgecombe

“Ever since he got drafted—ever since he visited Duke, he's been such a great energy person. Just great vibes. I have nothing but good things to say about VJ. He's been helpful when I wasn't playing, when just things weren't going my way, when I was on the Sixers, and I'm just very grateful the relationship that we've built. That's a brother for life, for sure.”

— Jared McCain

What’s next

As the NBA regular season winds down, Edgecombe and the Sixers will continue their push to secure a playoff spot, while McCain and the Thunder gear up for a postseason run.

The takeaway

The close friendship between Edgecombe and McCain serves as a heartwarming example of the importance of building supportive relationships in the NBA, especially for young players trying to establish themselves in the league. Their mutual respect and genuine care for one another's success is a testament to the power of camaraderie and mentorship in professional sports.