The Philadelphia 76ers kicked off their Summer League season in a thrilling matchup against the Utah Jazz on Saturday night. This game marked the first opportunity for fans to witness the talents of the Sixers' rookies, including VJ Edgecombe, the No. 3 overall pick from the 2025 NBA Draft, and Johni Broome, who was selected 35th overall. Alongside these newcomers, familiar faces like Adem Bona and Justin Edwards returned to the court, showcasing their skills. Although the Sixers lost the contest 93-89, the significance of Summer League games often lies in the individual performances rather than the final score. Let’s delve into the standout highlights from the Sixers' first outing of the season.
In this matchup, several players made a strong impression. Here’s a breakdown of the most notable highlights from the game:
1. Adem Bona's Dominant Dunk
Adem Bona showcased his strength and athleticism right from the start. He executed an impressive slam dunk off a pick-and-roll play at the top of the key, sending a clear message about his aggressive approach this season.
2. VJ Edgecombe's Quick Thinking
In a moment that displayed his basketball IQ, VJ Edgecombe drew the attention of two defenders before quickly passing to fellow rookie Johni Broome, who nailed a three-pointer. This play highlighted Edgecombe's ability to create opportunities for his teammates.
3. Edgecombe's Impressive Jumper
Edgecombe made a challenging jumper look effortless, reminiscent of the style of Tyrese Maxey. Despite being closely guarded by two defenders near the baseline, he managed to pull up for a smooth bucket that left fans in awe.
4. Coast-to-Coast Move by Edgecombe
One of the standout moments of the game was when Edgecombe effortlessly took the ball coast-to-coast, showcasing his speed and agility. His ability to navigate through defenders made it seem as if his opponents were weighed down.
5. Bona's Strong Finish Off Armstrong's Assist
Bona continued to shine with a powerful dunk after receiving an assist from Mark Armstrong. Although Armstrong faced challenges throughout the game, this play demonstrated his awareness and ability to set up his teammates effectively.
6. Edgecombe's Precision Pass to Bona
Edgecombe's playmaking skills were on full display when he threaded a needle for an assist to Bona. Despite being trapped at the elbow, he patiently waited for Jalen Hood-Schifino to create a diversion. Once the moment was right, Edgecombe delivered a perfect pass that led to another easy dunk for Bona.
With these exciting performances, it's clear that both VJ Edgecombe and Adem Bona are players to watch as the Summer League progresses. Which play stood out to you the most from the Sixers' first Summer League game of 2025? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
