The 2025 rookie class was on full display tonight, giving fans a first look at several highly anticipated debuts. Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper, and Kon Knueppel all saw their first NBA action, while Philadelphia’s VJ Edgecombe turned in a performance that instantly made headlines.
In San Antonio, top pick Cooper Flagg had a slow start, scoring his first points in the second half as the Spurs cruised to a 125-92 win. Flagg finished with 10 points on 30.7% shooting. Some of his shooting woes were on display during the Summer League. While he showed flashes of what is to come, he will need time to adjust. The Duke standout shot 48% from the field in his lone college season, so once he finds his rhythm, better nights are ahead.
Victor Wembanyama, returning from blood clots that sidelined him for the second half of last season, looked dominant. The Spurs’ star finished with 40 points, 15 rebounds, and three blocks, reminding everyone he is still the face of San Antonio’s future.
Dylan Harper also made his season debut and gave the crowd plenty to cheer for. Coming off the bench, he played 23 minutes, shot 7-for-14, and led all bench scorers with 15 points. It was a confident and efficient showing to open his rookie campaign.
Fellow Duke standout Kon Knueppel had a strong debut as well. Against the Brooklyn Nets, he knocked down three three-pointers, grabbed five rebounds, and contributed valuable minutes in the Hornets’ rotation.
While all three first-rounders performed well, the night belonged to Philadelphia’s VJ Edgecombe. For years, the Sixers have struggled to turn talent into postseason success. The acquisition of Paul George was supposed to bring a spark to the team and help them go on a championship run, but injuries have kept George from contributing as much as the organization would like. Although it is estimated that George will return soon, the Sixers have another star on the rise in Edgecombe to fill that void.
Not since Allen Iverson’s first game has a Sixers rookie generated this kind of buzz. Edgecombe attacked from the opening tip, attempting 26 shots and connecting on 13 of them. He also hit 38.4% from three and finished with 34 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists. Alongside Tyrese Maxey, who had a game-high 40 points, the pair could form one of the most explosive backcourts in the East.
Edgecombe made history in his debut, breaking multiple rookie marks. His 14 points in the first quarter set a new record for most in an NBA debut, surpassing LeBron James’ 12 from October 29, 2003. His 34 total points also broke Allen Iverson’s nearly 30-year franchise record for most by a Sixers rookie in their first game.
With breakout performances from Edgecombe, Flagg, Harper, and Knueppel, the NBA’s future looks bright. It is far too early to name a Rookie of the Year favorite, but if tonight was any indication, VJ Edgecombe made it clear he plans to be in that conversation all season long.
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