76ers' Edgecombe Praises Embiid, Addresses Team's Challenges

Rookie guard VJ Edgecombe opens up on playing with MVP center Joel Embiid and the 76ers' playoff push amid injuries.

Feb. 18, 2026 at 11:31pm

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In a recent interview, Philadelphia 76ers rookie guard VJ Edgecombe spoke candidly about his relationship with star center Joel Embiid, describing the former MVP as "cool as hell" and "in his own little world." Edgecombe also acknowledged the challenges facing the 76ers this season, including Embiid's ongoing knee issues and the recent suspension of wing player Paul George. As the team pushes toward the playoffs, Edgecombe and fellow guard Tyrese Maxey will need to step up in the absence of key players.

Why it matters

Edgecombe's comments provide a rare glimpse into the dynamic between the 76ers' young core and their superstar center Embiid. With the team facing adversity due to injuries and suspensions, Edgecombe's leadership and chemistry with Embiid will be crucial as Philadelphia aims to secure a high playoff seed in the Eastern Conference.

The details

Edgecombe, who was drafted from Baylor, has quickly emerged as a key player for the 76ers in his debut NBA season. He has formed an effective backcourt partnership with Tyrese Maxey, establishing himself as a notable young guard in the league. In a recent podcast interview, Edgecombe spoke candidly about his relationship with Embiid, praising the former league MVP's skill level and personality. However, the 76ers have faced challenges this season, with Embiid struggling to stay consistently on the court due to ongoing knee issues. The team's difficulties have been compounded by the recent 25-game suspension of wing player Paul George for violating the league's banned substance policy.

  • The NBA All-Star weekend was held in Los Angeles.
  • Edgecombe spoke about his connection with Embiid on the Club 520 Podcast on X, formerly known as Twitter.
  • The 76ers recently suffered a 49-point defeat to the New York Knicks.
  • The 76ers will host the Atlanta Hawks on Thursday evening.

The players

VJ Edgecombe

A rookie guard for the Philadelphia 76ers who was drafted from Baylor University. Edgecombe has quickly emerged as a key player for the 76ers, forming an effective backcourt partnership with Tyrese Maxey.

Joel Embiid

The star center for the Philadelphia 76ers and former NBA Most Valuable Player. Embiid has struggled with ongoing knee issues that have kept him off the court for significant stretches of the season.

Tyrese Maxey

A guard for the Philadelphia 76ers who has been playing alongside VJ Edgecombe in the team's backcourt.

Paul George

A wing player for the Philadelphia 76ers who was recently suspended for 25 games after violating the league's banned substance policy.

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What they’re saying

“Yo, that's my n**** dog… He cool as hell, bro. He just chill. He be in his own little world. Yo, I swear I never seen someone like really that good. I ain't gon' lie,”

— VJ Edgecombe (Club 520 Podcast on X)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Edgecombe's candid comments about his relationship with Embiid provide a unique insight into the 76ers' locker room dynamics, while the team's recent struggles due to injuries and suspensions highlight the importance of Edgecombe and Maxey stepping up to lead the team through this challenging period.