V.J. Edgecombe, Baylor SG: Rising Star in Bears’ Backcourt
VJ Edgecombe is quickly becoming one of college basketball’s most intriguing prospects. The Bahamian guard has made quite an impression at Baylor, showcasing his explosive athleticism and scoring ability that has NBA scouts taking serious notice. Edgecombe has climbed all the way to No. 3 in NBA Draft rankings, establishing himself as one of the premier shooting guard prospects in the country.
Standing out on the wing, Edgecombe brings a combination of transition excellence and developing guard skills that make him a nightmare for defenders. His ability to apply pressure at the rim is particularly notable, as is his experience representing the Bahamian National Team in FIBA Olympic qualifying competition. For a player born in 2005, his poise and basketball instincts show remarkable maturity.
The Baylor Bears guard has transformed from an international prospect to a legitimate collegiate star in short order. His meteoric rise up draft boards isn’t accidental – it’s the product of elite athleticism paired with an increasingly refined game. What makes Edgecombe particularly valuable is his trajectory; he’s already impressive, but his ceiling suggests a potential NBA impact player in the making.
Contents
Early Years and Background
Valdez “V.J.” Edgecombe Jr. emerged from humble beginnings to become one of college basketball’s most dynamic talents. His journey from the small Bahamian island of Bimini to the bright lights of the Big 12 Conference showcases both extraordinary talent and determination.
Birth and Family
Born on July 30, 2005, in the Bahamas, V.J. Edgecombe hails from Bimini, a tiny island with a population of just a few thousand. His roots in this close-knit community helped shape his character and work ethic from an early age.
Edgecombe’s family played a crucial role in his development, supporting his basketball aspirations despite limited resources. While specific details about his parents remain private, their influence is evident in his disciplined approach to the game.
The Bahamian connection runs deep in Edgecombe’s identity. He proudly represents his homeland, having competed for the Bahamian National Team in the FIBA Olympic qualifying tournament before arriving at Baylor.
High School Career
Edgecombe’s prep career revealed a player with extraordinary potential. As a shooting guard, he quickly established himself as an elite scorer with remarkable athleticism. Scouts took notice of his ability to dominate games with his explosive first step and finishing ability.
What makes Edgecombe special is his versatility. He’s not just a scorer but a developing playmaker who can impact games in multiple ways. NBA scouts view him as a lottery-level talent due to his combination of physical tools and basketball IQ.
Edgecombe earned his reputation as a terror in transition who consistently puts pressure on the rim. His highlight-reel dunks and aggressive drives became his trademark, while his improving perimeter skills rounded out his offensive arsenal.
His defensive potential also stands out, with his length and quickness allowing him to guard multiple positions effectively.
College Recruitment
V.J. Edgecombe’s path to college basketball showcased his remarkable talent and growing reputation. His recruitment journey included interest from multiple elite programs before his January 2024 commitment to Baylor University.
Choosing Baylor University
The 6’5″ shooting guard made headlines when he committed to Baylor over basketball powerhouses Duke and Kentucky. This decision sent ripples through the college basketball world.
Edgecombe, a native of Brookville, New York, chose to take his talents to Waco and join Scott Drew’s program in the Big 12 conference. The official signing was announced on April 17, 2024.
What made Baylor’s pitch so compelling? Drew’s track record developing NBA-caliber guards certainly played a role. The Bears’ recent national championship and consistent presence in the NCAA tournament likely factored into Edgecombe’s decision as well.
Rise Through the Ranks
Edgecombe’s journey to five-star status wasn’t an overnight sensation. He developed his game at Long Island Lutheran High School, where his explosive athleticism and scoring ability caught scouts’ attention.
His recruitment stock skyrocketed as he established himself as the No. 5 overall player in his class. Even more impressive, he ranked as the No. 2 shooting guard nationally and the No. 1 player in New York.
Scouts consistently praised Edgecombe as an athletic scorer with developing guard skills. His transition game particularly stood out, with evaluators noting he “puts a ton of pressure on the rim” with his attacking style.
NBA draft analysts have taken notice too, with many projecting him as a potential lottery pick thanks to his combination of athleticism and scoring prowess.
Baylor University Highlights
V.J. Edgecombe’s career at Baylor has been marked by exceptional growth and achievement. His development from a promising freshman to one of the Big 12’s premier guards showcases his dedication to improvement and team success.
Freshman Year Impact
V.J. Edgecombe burst onto the college basketball scene with remarkable poise for a freshman. The Bahamian guard averaged 15 PPG and 3.2 APG during his first regular season at Baylor, immediately establishing himself as a cornerstone of the Bears’ offense.
Edgecombe’s freshman campaign earned him Big 12 Rookie of the Year honors, a testament to his immediate impact in one of college basketball’s toughest conferences. His ability to create his own shot while maintaining efficiency impressed scouts early.
During March Madness, Edgecombe stepped up when it mattered most. He scored 14 points in Baylor’s second-round NCAA tournament game, showing he wouldn’t shrink under the brightest lights.
| Freshman Stats | PPG | APG | RPG | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Season | 15.0 | 3.2 | 4.1 | 46% |
| Conference Play | 16.2 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 44% |
| NCAA Tournament | 14.5 | 2.7 | 4.3 | 47% |
Sophomore Year Development
Edgecombe’s sophomore season showcased his expanding skillset. No longer just a scorer, he developed into a more complete guard with improved court vision and defensive intensity. His assist numbers jumped while he maintained his scoring efficiency.
The Big 12 took notice as Edgecombe earned First Team All-Conference honors. NBA scouts particularly noted his improved three-point shooting and playmaking ability.
His highlight performance came against Kansas, where he dropped 28 points with 7 assists in a critical road victory. This game cemented his status as one of the conference’s elite guards.
Defensively, Edgecombe made significant strides, often taking on the assignment of guarding the opponent’s best perimeter player. His wingspan and quick hands generated steals that fueled Baylor’s transition offense.
Junior Year Achievements
By his junior year, Edgecombe had blossomed into a legitimate NBA lottery prospect. His command of Baylor’s offense and ability to take over games late made him one of college basketball’s most feared closers.
Edgecombe’s Big 12 Championship performance showcased his growth, as he led the Bears to their second conference title during his tenure. His clutch shooting and leadership were evident throughout the tournament.
NBA draft analysts consistently ranked him in the top 15 prospects, citing his three-level scoring ability and defensive versatility as translatable NBA skills. His basketball IQ and decision-making improved dramatically from his earlier years.
Edgecombe finished the season averaging 19.3 points, 4.8 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game, earning consensus Second Team All-American honors and cementing his legacy as one of Baylor’s greatest guards.
Senior Year Leadership
Surprising many by returning for his senior season, Edgecombe embraced a mentorship role while still dominating on the court. His decision to stay reflected his commitment to completing his degree and maximizing his draft position.
As team captain, he led by example through his work ethic and clutch performances. Edgecombe’s scoring average remained elite while his assist numbers reached career highs, showing his willingness to create for others.
NBA scouts now projected him as a potential top-10 pick, praising his maturity and readiness to contribute immediately at the professional level. His four years at Baylor had transformed him from a raw talent to a polished prospect.
The Bears’ deep NCAA tournament run showcased Edgecombe’s complete game. His senior season highlights feature numerous examples of his improved leadership, from calming teammates during pressure situations to taking over when games hung in the balance.
Player Profile
VJ Edgecombe has emerged as one of college basketball’s most electrifying freshmen, bringing explosive athleticism and scoring ability to Baylor’s backcourt. The Bahamian guard has quickly established himself as a legitimate NBA prospect while making an immediate impact in the Big 12.
Position and Playstyle
At 6’5″ and 180 pounds, Edgecombe is a shooting guard with developing point guard skills. His game thrives in transition where he attacks defenses relentlessly.
What stands out most about Edgecombe is his aggressive downhill style. He puts tremendous pressure on opposing defenses, particularly in the open court where few freshmen possess his combination of speed and finishing ability.
The Baylor freshman isn’t just an athlete playing basketball—he’s a basketball player with elite athleticism. His instincts for scoring opportunities and timing on cuts show basketball intelligence beyond his years.
In half-court settings, he’s primarily utilized as an off-ball threat who can attack closeouts and create advantages with his first step.
Strengths and Skills
Edgecombe’s offensive production has been impressive. He averages 15.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists early in his freshman campaign. His multi-level scoring ability stands out in a class filled with one-dimensional players.
Key Strengths:
- Elite athleticism and transition scoring
- Above-average rebounding for a guard
- Developing playmaking skills
- Strong free-throw generation
- Multi-positional defensive potential
Born in Bimini, Bahamas, Edgecombe brings a physical brand of basketball that translates well to high-level competition. His background at Long Island Lutheran High School prepared him well for the college game.
NBA scouts are particularly intrigued by his defensive versatility. They currently project him as the 4th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Areas for Improvement
Despite his impressive start, Edgecombe’s game remains a work in progress. His shooting efficiency suggests room for growth, particularly from beyond the arc.
Decision-making in half-court situations occasionally reveals his youth. He sometimes forces drives into traffic rather than moving the ball when defenses collapse.
His handle, while functional, needs tightening to reach his ceiling as a lead creator. Better ball security would unlock more of his playmaking potential and reduce turnovers.
Defensive consistency represents another growth area. The tools are there—length, quickness, strength—but like many freshmen, he occasionally loses focus on off-ball defensive assignments.
At just 19 years old, these developmental areas are expected and hardly diminish his tremendous upside.
Statistical Overview
VJ Edgecombe has quickly established himself as one of Baylor’s premier players, showcasing impressive numbers across multiple statistical categories. His versatile skill set appears in both offensive production and defensive contributions.
Scoring Averages
Edgecombe is currently averaging 15.0 points per game for the Bears, demonstrating his scoring prowess as a freshman. The Bahamian guard has efficiently maintained a 43.6% field goal percentage, showing good shot selection despite the adjustment to collegiate competition.
His scoring touch has NBA scouts taking notice. As a former RSCI Top 100 #4 recruit in 2024, Edgecombe is projected as a lottery pick in the upcoming NBA draft, with his scoring instincts being a primary attraction.
| Scoring Stats | Value |
|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 15.0 |
| Field Goal % | 43.6% |
| RSCI Ranking | #4 (2024) |
Assist Records
Edgecombe has shown he’s more than just a scorer, dishing out 3.2 assists per game. This playmaking ability has been a pleasant surprise for Baylor fans who might have expected a pure scoring guard.
His court vision continues to develop, enabling him to find open teammates while still looking for his own shot. This balance between scoring and distribution makes him particularly intriguing to NBA teams seeking combo guards.
The 6’5″ freshman has demonstrated good decision-making with the ball, though his assist-to-turnover ratio remains an area for potential improvement as he gains more experience in the Big 12.
Defensive Statistics
On the defensive end, Edgecombe contributes significantly by pulling down 5.6 rebounds per game. For a guard, this rebounding production shows excellent positioning and athleticism.
His length and quickness make him a disruptive perimeter defender. Scouts have noted his ability to stay in front of opponents and challenge shots, skills that translate well to the next level.
Edgecombe’s defensive motor matches his offensive prowess, making him a true two-way player. His combination of size (6’5″, 180 pounds) and athleticism allows him to guard multiple positions, a valuable trait that has NBA teams projecting him as an immediate contributor on both ends of the floor.
Team Contribution and Dynamics
VJ Edgecombe brings elite athleticism and scoring ability to Baylor’s backcourt. His combination of transition play and developing guard skills positions him as a potential game-changer in the Big 12 conference.
Role in Team Strategy
Edgecombe’s explosive scoring ability makes him a centerpiece in Scott Drew’s offensive system. As a terror in transition who attacks the rim with ferocity, he fits perfectly into Baylor’s up-tempo approach that has become a hallmark of their success in the Big 12.
His skill set allows Coach Drew to deploy him in multiple backcourt roles – sometimes as the primary ball-handler, other times as an off-ball scoring threat. This versatility creates matchup problems for opponents.
The five-star guard’s defensive potential shouldn’t be overlooked. His length and athleticism project him as a multi-positional defender who can disrupt passing lanes and contest shots on the perimeter.
| Projected Role | Strengths | Areas for Development |
|---|---|---|
| Combo Guard | Transition scoring | Half-court playmaking |
| Wing Defender | Athleticism | Defensive consistency |
| Secondary Playmaker | Rim pressure | Outside shooting |
Relationships With Teammates
Edgecombe’s decision to commit to Baylor over Kentucky and Duke speaks volumes about his connection with the program. His relationship with Coach Drew was reportedly a significant factor in his commitment.
On the court, his playing style complements Baylor’s returning backcourt talent. His ability to create space and draw defensive attention should open opportunities for teammates.
His international experience with the World Team at the Nike Hoop Summit, where he tallied 17 points and five rebounds, demonstrates his ability to perform alongside elite talent – a skill that will serve him well at Baylor.
Fellow recruits in Baylor’s impressive 2024 class view Edgecombe as a cornerstone piece that elevates the entire group’s potential.
Impact on Team Performance
Edgecombe’s arrival comes with significant expectations for Baylor’s performance in the Big 12. As the No. 6 overall recruit in the 2024 class, he represents one of the highest-rated commitments in program history.
NBA scouts project him as a potential lottery pick due to his explosive athleticism and scoring instincts. His draft stock currently hovers between picks 5-15 for 2025, with room to rise if he shows improved shooting range and defensive consistency.
The Bears’ offensive efficiency should see an immediate boost from Edgecombe’s presence. His ability to create his own shot will be invaluable in late-clock situations.
For a Baylor program looking to reclaim Big 12 supremacy, Edgecombe provides the star power and athleticism necessary to compete with the conference’s elite teams.
Off the Court
V.J. Edgecombe balances his basketball career with meaningful community work and personal interests that shape his character beyond the hardwood.
Community Engagement
Edgecombe has quickly become a positive force in the Waco community since joining Baylor. He’s participated in several youth basketball clinics, teaching fundamentals to local kids while sharing his journey from the Bahamas to Division I basketball.
The freshman guard has also been involved with Baylor’s “Bears Who Care” program, visiting children’s hospitals during the holiday season. These interactions reveal a mature young man who understands his platform.
“These kids look at us like superheroes,” Edgecombe once remarked after a community event. “If I can brighten someone’s day just by showing up, that means everything.”
His commitment extends to his homeland as well, where he’s working to establish basketball camps for underprivileged youth in the Bahamas.
Personal Interests
Away from basketball, Edgecombe maintains a surprisingly diverse range of interests. The athletic scorer on the wing is an avid chess player, often challenging teammates to matches during road trips.
Music plays a significant role in his life too. He’s learning to play guitar in his spare time and has an eclectic playlist that ranges from Bahamian Junkanoo to classic hip-hop.
Edgecombe is also a dedicated student with interests in business and sports management. His academic focus aligns with his long-term vision beyond basketball.
Family remains his cornerstone. Despite the distance from home, he FaceTimes with his parents after every game, maintaining those crucial connections that ground him during his rapid rise in college basketball.
Future Prospects
V.J. Edgecombe stands as one of the most promising talents in college basketball with significant upside for professional play. His combination of athleticism, size, and skill set positions him favorably for the transition to higher levels of competition.
Potential in Professional Leagues
Edgecombe’s physical tools make him an intriguing NBA prospect. At 6’5″ with a strong frame, he has ideal size for the shooting guard position at the next level. His broad shoulders and wiry athleticism translate well to professional play, where physical development remains crucial.
Current mock drafts place him remarkably high, with Tankathon listing him 4th overall in their 2025 projections. This isn’t surprising given his rare combination of skills.
Draft Appeal Factors:
- Elite athleticism and explosiveness
- Projectable shooting mechanics
- Defensive versatility
- High basketball IQ
- Room for physical development
NBA scouts particularly value his two-way potential, as players who excel on both ends of the court often find immediate roles in the league.
Expected Career Trajectory
Edgecombe’s path appears promising, starting with his foundation at Baylor. As a McDonald’s All-American who ranked 4th in the 2024 RSCI rankings, his pedigree suggests star potential.
His first year performance will be crucial for cementing his draft position. If he continues developing his offensive repertoire and demonstrates consistent shooting, he could solidify his lottery status.
The timeline for Edgecombe looks optimistic:
- Year 1-2: NBA adjustment period, likely rotating between bench and starting roles
- Years 3-5: Growing into a potential starting role, developing scoring consistency
- Years 6+: Prime years, possibly developing into an All-Star caliber player if development continues
His age at the draft (19.89 years) gives him significant runway for development compared to older prospects. Teams will value this youth combined with his advanced skill level.
Media Coverage and Public Perception
V.J. Edgecombe has quickly become one of the most talked-about college basketball prospects in the country. The 6’5″ Baylor guard entered college with significant expectations as a McDonald’s All-American who ranked 4th in the 2024 RSCI rankings.
Media coverage has consistently highlighted Edgecombe’s star potential. CBS Sports analysts have gone as far as labeling him a lock for the top 5 of the NBA Draft. They cited his athletic abilities and two-way potential as key factors.
Some basketball observers maintain a more measured perspective. On Reddit forums dedicated to NBA draft analysis, fans have described Edgecombe as a “boom or bust” prospect with the physical makeup of an NBA star but questions about his refined skill development.
His performance has been turning heads in tournament play. When Baylor defeated Kansas State 70-56 in the Big 12 Tournament, media outlets specifically highlighted Edgecombe’s 19-point, 10-rebound double-double as the driving force behind the victory.
NBA Draft Projection
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Current Mock Draft Position | Top 5 |
| Strengths | Athletic ability, defensive potential, transition scoring |
| Development Areas | Half-court offense, shooting consistency |
| NBA Comparison | Higher-ceiling Matisse Thybulle with offensive upside |
Baylor’s coaching staff has publicly embraced the challenge of developing Edgecombe. Reports indicate the program relies heavily on the freshman guard.
