Justin Edwards took a funky path to end up with his hometown team, but the undrafted rookie showed out in his first NBA season with the Sixers.
The Sixers’ 2024–25 campaign was anything but memorable, with few bright spots in what many considered a lost season. But amid the disappointment, a few silver linings emerged: including Justin Edwards. Signed to a two-way deal after going undrafted, the Philly native quickly proved he belonged — becoming one of the few success stories in an otherwise forgettable year.
Edwards began the season on a two-way contract, spending most of his time with the Delaware Blue Coats, the Sixers’ G League affiliate. Aside from a brief appearance in a blowout loss early in the year, he didn’t see meaningful NBA minutes until the calendar flipped. But once the Sixers gave him a real opportunity, Edwards ran with it — appearing in every game he was healthy for down the stretch.
Over the final 42 games of the 2025 season, Edwards averaged 10.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 1.1 steals and 0.4 blocks per game. He shot 45.3% from the field and 36.5% from three on 4.5 attempts per night, while logging 27.2 minutes per game. His consistent production and two-way impact earned him a promotion to a standard NBA contract to finish the year, along with a team option for next season.
That midseason surge didn’t just come out of nowhere. Edwards’ development in the G League laid the groundwork for his NBA breakout. With the Blue Coats, he honed his shooting mechanics, learned to operate within an offense, and embraced the physicality of pro-level defenders. By the time he got his chance in the big leagues, he looked comfortable — poised, even — on both ends of the floor.
Offensively, Edwards thrived in a complementary role. He didn’t force shots or overextend himself, instead picking his spots and capitalizing on open looks. His three-point shooting was particularly encouraging. At 36.5% on healthy volume, he proved he could stretch the floor — a trait that makes him a viable fit next to high-usage stars. He also flashed a little shot creation, showing the ability to attack closeouts and finish through contact with his long frame.
Defensively, he brought the kind of energy that earned him the trust of head coach Nick Nurse. With his size, instincts and quickness, Edwards routinely disrupted passing lanes and hounded perimeter scorers. He didn’t rack up gaudy block numbers, but he was rarely out of position and often made the right reads — the kind of stuff coaches love from role players.
What stood out most, though, was how seamlessly Edwards adapted to the NBA pace. Rookie mistakes were rare, and his effort never wavered. Whether he was starting, coming off the bench, or closing out blowouts, he played with a consistent motor. That consistency, paired with flashes of upside, made him one of the few players to make a real impression in a season full of forgettable moments.
Looking ahead, Edwards could be in line for a bigger role depending on how the Sixers shape their offseason. With veterans like Kelly Oubre Jr. weighing player options and the possibility of adding more youth via the draft, nothing is set in stone. But Edwards has shown he belongs — and for a guy who didn’t hear his name called on draft night, that’s already a big win.
Player Grade: A-
Justin Edwards surpassed expectations and earned a real spot in the Sixers’ rotation at a time when the team badly needed a spark. His shooting, defensive effort, and steady play stood out — and he looked every bit the part of a long-term NBA contributor. For an undrafted rookie, you couldn’t ask for much more.