Sixers' Rookie VJ Edgecombe Wins Rising Stars MVP

Edgecombe relished the opportunity to play for Hall of Famer Vince Carter

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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After unanimously winning MVP of the NBA Rising Stars Game, Philadelphia 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe relished the opportunity to play for Hall of Famer Vince Carter. Edgecombe totaled 23 points across their two games en route to the championship on Friday at the Intuit Dome, including the last 10 to clinch their place in the final against Team Melo.

Why it matters

Edgecombe's performance in the Rising Stars Game showcases his talent and potential as a young player in the NBA. As a third overall draft pick, his early success is an encouraging sign for the 76ers as they aim to solidify a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

The details

The 20-year-old was selected first by Carter in the Rising Stars Game draft on Jan. 27, and the second overall behind Cooper Flagg, who was sidelined with a foot injury. Edgecombe wanted to prove Carter right as his top pick for the game. Edgecombe is affecting games at a high level, leading the league in loose-balls recovered (60) and ranking 10th among rookies in contested shots (210). He is also one of three rookies to score at least 20 points in four straight games this season.

  • The Rising Stars Game took place on Friday, February 14, 2026.
  • Edgecombe was selected first by Vince Carter in the Rising Stars Game draft on January 27, 2026.

The players

VJ Edgecombe

A 20-year-old rookie for the Philadelphia 76ers who was named MVP of the Rising Stars Game after totaling 23 points across two games.

Vince Carter

A Hall of Fame player who served as the head coach for one of the teams in the Rising Stars Game and selected Edgecombe as his first pick.

Cooper Flagg

A rookie who was sidelined with a foot injury and was selected second overall in the Rising Stars Game draft.

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What they’re saying

“He told us, why not just play hard? After practice, we all decided, man, we're just going to go in there and compete. Vince, he just wanted me to be aggressive the whole time. I just tried to show him why he picked me as his first pick, which is a blessing. I just wanted to go out there and go hoop, just play basketball.”

— VJ Edgecombe, Philadelphia 76ers Rookie (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

Edgecombe is looking forward to the 76ers' final 28 games after the All-Star break, as the team aims to solidify its place in the Eastern Conference playoff race.

The takeaway

Edgecombe's MVP performance in the Rising Stars Game is a promising sign for the 76ers, as the young rookie continues to make an impact and prove his worth as a high draft pick. His success in the showcase event could be a springboard for an even stronger second half of the season as the 76ers push for a playoff berth.