Philadelphia 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe has spoken about the importance of playing his first game as a professional in Miami against the Heat. Edgecombe grew up in Bimini in The Bahamas and naturally became a Miami Heat fan. As the closest NBA team, he has memories of watching Dwyane Wade and LeBron James lead the Heat.
Edgecombe’s Childhood Connection to the Heat
Edgecombe spoke with Sixers Wire as he prepared for the matchup with the Heat. He admitted that walking into Kaseya Center as a professional meant a little more to him. “Yeah, kinda,” Edgecombe smiled, recalling his childhood memories. He added, “When I was watching (as a kid), it was American Airlines (Arena). It changed the name and all, but obviously, to me, it will always be American Airlines. It’s what I grew up watching.”
Balancing Personal Significance with Team Goals
Edgecombe is focused on helping the Sixers make a playoff push. He is also considered to be in Rookie of the Year conversations with Cooper Flagg of the Dallas Mavericks and Kon Knueppel of the Charlotte Hornets. The Sixers will be looking to him to make an impact against the Heat.
Edgecombe is also aware of the personal importance of playing in Miami. He recognises that not everyone gets to play in the arena of their favourite childhood team. Edgecombe intends to enjoy the experience at Kaseya Center while aiming to help the Sixers secure a win against the Heat.
“It’s kinda surreal,” he added. “I was a Heat fan growing up. So, I let my mom and them know. I let most of my family know. So, it’s kinda like a home team for me, but I’m happy just to play against them in this building. The most important thing for me is just winning. It won’t be fun if we lose.”
The Sixers and the Heat are scheduled to play at 7 p.m. EDT on Monday.