VJ Edgecombe etched his name into NBA playoff lore last Saturday, delivering a performance that not only propelled the Philadelphia 76ers to a stunning Game 7 victory over the Boston Celtics but also placed him alongside an Oklahoma City Thunder star in the record books.

The rookie guard poured in 23 points during the 109-100 road win at TD Garden, completing one of the most improbable comebacks of the postseason. More importantly, Edgecombe's shooting from deep was nothing short of historic.

According to StatMuse, Edgecombe became just the second rookie in NBA history to drain five or more three-pointers in a Game 7. The only other player to achieve this feat? Oklahoma City Thunder guard Luguentz Dort—elite company for a first-year player still finding his footing on the biggest stage.

Against a tenacious Celtics defense, the 20-year-old shot 45% from beyond the arc, connecting on five of his 11 attempts. He added two free throws and three two-point baskets to round out his scoring, displaying a poise that belied his age.

Selected third overall in the 2025 NBA Draft—behind only Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper—Edgecombe entered the season with sky-high expectations. He quickly emerged as a Rookie of the Year contender, finishing third in voting behind Flagg and Kon Knueppel. His regular-season averages of 16 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists hinted at the potential he's now realizing on the playoff stage.

For the 76ers, this victory snapped two historic streaks and signaled that their young core is ready to compete with the league's elite. For Edgecombe, it was a statement that he belongs among the game's rising stars—and a reminder that the best is yet to come.