The Philadelphia 76ers can turn to a number of directions in the 2025 NBA draft as they look to take the next step on their journey toward title contention. After a miserable 24-58 season that was marred by injuries, the Sixers have the No. 3 pick and they will have their pick at a number of talented players.
Philadelphia can look at guys like Rutgers star Ace Bailey, Baylor star VJ Edgecombe, or Duke products Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach. Maybe even a turn at Oklahoma product Jeremiah Fears if the Sixers feel like they can use another playmaker.
A mock draft performed by SB Nation has the Sixers taking Edgecombe with the No. 3 pick in the draft:
I ranked the eight best players the Sixers could take at No. 3, and landed on VJ Edgecombe and Kon Knueppel as the top two choices. While I still favor Knueppel for the Sixers, Edgecombe is generally ranked higher on boards and feels like a safer projection. Philly’s perimeter would be a bit small with either player, but Edgecombe’s athleticism and defensive playmaking, and Knueppel’s shooting and offensive playmaking would make either a solid selection.
Many will be clamoring for Bailey with this pick for the Sixers, but Edgecombe is no slouch. He averaged 15.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists while shooting 43.6% from the floor and 34% from deep for the Bears. He also averaged 2.1 steals per game as he was all over the place on that end of the floor. Edgecombe’s athleticism would be a nice fit next to the Big 3 as the Sixers prepare for another run at the title.
