Key Highlights
- The 2025-26 NBA season is set to begin with the Philadelphia 76ers and Boston Celtics in the NBA Cup group stage.
- Boston Celtics legend Paul Pierce believes his team will overcome rookie VJ Edgecombe’s impressive performance from their previous matchup.
- Edgecombe, a Sixers third overall pick, has been dominant early, averaging 22.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game.
- The Celtics face the challenge of playing in Philadelphia at an NBA Cup event, which will add extra fan energy to the atmosphere.
Excitement Builds for the 2025-26 NBA Season
The anticipation surrounding the upcoming 2025-26 NBA season continues to grow as the Philadelphia 76ers and Boston Celtics prepare for their highly anticipated opening matchup in the NBA Cup group stage. The games kick off tonight, marking the beginning of what promises to be an exciting competition.
Previous Matchup and Expectations
In the first meeting between these teams this season, the Sixers defeated the Celtics, with rookie VJ Edgecombe delivering a standout performance. He scored 34 points in his NBA debut, surpassing other rookies by posting the third-highest score in their first game.
Paul Pierce’s Confidence
Boston Celtics legend Paul Pierce is confident that his team will rectify any mistakes from the previous matchup against Edgecombe. “He’s on the scouting report now,” stated Pierce during an interview with the No Fouls Given podcast, highlighting the increased attention Edgecombe will receive.
VJ Edgecombe’s Early Success
Edgecombe, drafted third overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, has quickly established himself as a key player for the Sixers. His combination of athleticism and skill has caught many by surprise, contributing to his impressive statistics: averaging 22.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game.
Challenges Ahead
The Celtics will face a tougher challenge this time around as they head into the game against the Sixers in Philadelphia at an NBA Cup event. The increased fan energy is expected to add pressure, but Boston holds its own with a 2-3 record through five games.
Team Motivation and Strategies
The Celtics will be motivated by their recent losses, especially after holding a 2-3 record following the opening night defeat. Meanwhile, Danny Green believes that this matchup could provide additional motivation for Boston to secure a victory. “I think they’re going to come out with a chip on their shoulder in Philly,” he said.
The Sixers, off to a strong start at 4-0, will also be eager to improve their record to 5-0 for the first time since the 2019-2020 season. The stakes are higher this time around as both teams aim to prove themselves in the NBA Cup opener.
The game is set to tip off at 7 PM ET on Amazon Prime, promising a thrilling matchup that will showcase the talent of VJ Edgecombe and the veteran experience of the Boston Celtics.
