In a twist few saw coming, Philadelphia 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe finally got one over on his longtime rival Cooper Flagg—and he did it in front of a buzzing Summer League crowd in Las Vegas.
Although neither rookie hit the court during Wednesday night’s showdown between the Dallas Mavericks and Philadelphia 76ers, the spotlight still found them. During halftime, the two rising stars faced off in a lighthearted but competitive skills challenge, and this time, Edgecombe walked away with the win.
The deciding moment? A test of finesse and showmanship: spinning a basketball on one finger. It wasn’t a dunk, a three-point shootout, or a speed drill—but Edgecombe’s poise and precision kept the ball spinning just a moment longer than Flagg’s, drawing cheers and laughter from fans and teammates alike.
For Edgecombe, it may be a small victory—but one that carries symbolic weight. He’s spent much of his young career just behind Flagg in the spotlight. Flagg was the top-ranked high school prospect. His Duke Blue Devils went further than Baylor in March Madness. And when NBA Draft night arrived, Flagg went No. 1 to Dallas, while Edgecombe fell to the third pick.
Now, the tides could be turning.
While Flagg begins his NBA journey without Kyrie Irving for the first half of the season, Edgecombe may walk into the best rookie situation of the top three picks. With Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, and a healthy Paul George (once he returns), the Sixers are quietly building something dangerous. Edgecombe’s versatility and strong Summer League showing have fans buzzing—and experts watching closely.
The competition between Flagg, Edgecombe, and Dylan Harper for Rookie of the Year honors is already heating up. Wednesday night’s finger-spin might not make the highlight reel, but it’s the kind of moment that adds fire to a rivalry—and confidence to a rising star.
For now, VJ Edgecombe can savor his small triumph. Come October, though, the real battle begins.
