“I Don’t Love You No More”: Joel Embiid Trolls Rookie VJ Edgecombe in Viral Locker Room Banter
In the world of professional sports, moments of genuine, unfiltered interaction can sometimes say more about a team’s culture than any press conference.
A recent, lighthearted exchange between Philadelphia 76ers superstar Joel Embiid and rookie sensation VJ Edgecombe has gone viral, offering a perfect glimpse into the playful chemistry fueling one of the NBA’s hottest teams .
Edgecombe, showing the confidence that has defined his stellar first season, fired back without missing a beat: “I hate passing Joel the ball”.
The reigning MVP doubled down on the fake feud: “I don’t like playing with you,” to which Edgecombe delivered the closing line: “That’s fine. I don’t love you no more either”.
Beyond the Jokes: A Foundation of Mutual Respect
While the video showcases their playful dynamic, the foundation of Embiid and Edgecombe’s relationship is built on serious professional respect. Embiid has been vocal in his praise for the No. 3 overall pick, particularly regarding the rapid development of Edgecombe’s game.
One of the most notable improvements has been his three-point shooting. “Coming out of college, I was told he was a bad shooter,” Embiid said after a recent win. “He’s been a great three-point shooter since he got here”.
Embiid credits the team’s ball-moving offense for allowing everyone, including the rookie, to thrive . He also highlighted Edgecombe’s defensive impact as a key to his immediate success .
A Rookie Exceeding All Expectations
Edgecombe isn’t just holding his own; he’s been a revelation. Averaging 16.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists, he has been a positive-impact, two-way starter from day one .
His performance has been so consistently impressive that All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey posed a rhetorical question: “He’s good this game, then he’s good the next game, then he’s good the next game. At what point do you just say he’s good?”.
A Team Finding Its Rhythm
The jovial mood in the 76ers’ locker room is a direct result of their on-court success. After battling injuries and a lack of continuity last season, the team has found its stride with its core of Embiid, Maxey, and veteran Paul George available .
Veteran forward Paul George pointed to the team’s growing camaraderie, stating, “I think it’s safe to say everybody in this locker room is starting to enjoy the game”.
This synergy was on full display in a recent marquee win over the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, where the playful Embiid-Edgecombe dynamic was also in evidence.
The Bigger Picture
The viral “feud” between Embiid and his rookie is more than just a funny clip. It’s a testament to a healthy team environment where veterans feel secure enough to joke and rookies are confident enough to joke back.
For the Philadelphia 76ers, having their franchise center and their promising future star trading barbs with big smiles is a very good sign.
It shows a team that is not just talented, but tight-knit, enjoying the game and each other’s success as they build towards something special. In Philadelphia, the present is bright, and the future.