The 2025 Salt Lake City summer league tipped off with an intense matchup. The Utah Jazz secured a hard-fought 93-89 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. This exciting contest took place Saturday night at the Jon M. Huntsman Center. It featured notable performances from rising young stars on both rosters.
While the Sixers’ highly anticipated No. 3 overall pick, VJ Edgecombe, delivered an electrifying offensive display, it was the Jazz’s balanced attack that ultimately prevailed. The game remained tight throughout. This thrilling wire-to-wire win gives Utah a positive start to their summer league campaign.
Jazz Survive Thrilling Sixers Comeback
Utah established control early in the game. They built a 52-43 advantage by halftime. This lead suggested a potentially comfortable outcome. However, the Philadelphia 76ers mounted a significant challenge.
The Sixers tightened their defense considerably in the third quarter. They limited the Jazz offense to just 14 points in the period. This defensive intensity helped cut the deficit to four points entering the final frame. Despite being outscored significantly in the paint (48-30) and committing 15 turnovers, the Jazz found a way to hold on. VJ Edgecombe had a chance to potentially tie or win the game in the closing seconds. His rushed fadeaway three-point attempt missed the mark, sealing the Jazz victory.
Sixers Showcase Rising Stars, Focus on Growth
The Philadelphia 76ers summer league focus extends beyond wins and losses. The team prioritizes player development for its young core. This game provided valuable evaluation opportunities.
VJ Edgecombe’s Explosive Debut
All eyes were on VJ Edgecombe in his first professional game setting. The No. 3 overall pick did not disappoint offensively. Edgecombe led all scorers with a game-high 28 points. He also filled the stat sheet impressively. He recorded a double-double by grabbing 10 rebounds. Additionally, he added four assists, one steal, and two blocks.
Edgecombe’s remarkable athleticism was on full display. He consistently drove to the basket. Sixers coaches are particularly keen on developing his guard skills. They are working on his ball-handling and playmaking abilities. This versatility is highly valued in today’s NBA. It would allow the Sixers to maximize his offensive potential.
Bona and Broome Show Promise with Developmental Goals
Second-year center Adem Bona contributed solid numbers. He finished the game with 16 points and eight rebounds. Bona also added one steal and one block. He is actively working to expand his offensive game. Bona has stated a specific goal to add a perimeter shot. This includes developing a reliable corner three-pointer. Coaches are facilitating this process during summer league practice. Adding this skill would provide valuable spacing for the Sixers’ offense.
Rookie second-round pick Johni Broome also had a strong showing. He scored 13 points. Broome added five rebounds to his stat line. The Sixers are evaluating Broome’s ideal professional position. They are experimenting with him at both power forward and center. Broome possesses a high basketball IQ and a soft touch. His strong offensive rebounding rate means he will consistently impact the game near the basket.
Veteran summer league player Justin Edwards matched Broome’s scoring output. He tallied 13 points along with three rebounds. These performances highlight the potential within the Sixers’ younger group.
Jazz Powered by Second-Year Talent and Depth
The Utah Jazz secured their opening night win through a balanced attack. Several players stepped up with key contributions. The team relied heavily on its returning summer league players.
Kyle Filipowksi led the scoring for the Jazz. He finished with 22 points. Filipowksi also contributed six rebounds, two assists, and a block. Brice Sensabaugh was a critical offensive force. He scored 19 points. Sensabaugh was particularly effective from beyond the arc. He connected on 5-of-8 attempts from three-point range. He also chipped in seven rebounds and two blocks.
Second-year forward Cody Williams provided scoring and defensive versatility. He tallied 14 points, pulled down five boards, and added one steal and one block. Off the bench, No. 18 overall pick Walter Clayton Jr. provided valuable production. He scored nine points. More notably, Clayton Jr. led the team with six assists. He also grabbed three rebounds and recorded a block. This depth proved crucial for the Jazz in maintaining their lead.
Overcoming Obstacles: How the Jazz Held On
The Jazz’s wire-to-wire win was impressive. It came despite facing specific challenges within the game. The 76ers dominated scoring in the paint. Their 48 points inside significantly outweighed Utah’s 30 paint points. Additionally, the Jazz committed 15 turnovers. Managing these struggles while maintaining a lead demonstrates resilience.
Utah’s effective three-point shooting helped counter the Sixers’ interior advantage. Brice Sensabaugh’s five made threes were particularly impactful. The Jazz’s ability to execute in the final minutes, forcing the crucial late miss from Edgecombe, allowed them to secure the narrow victory. This early game provides valuable lessons for the young squad.
What’s Next: Continuing Summer League Action
Both teams are set to return to the court shortly. The 2025 Salt Lake City Summer League action continues Monday night. The Philadelphia 76ers will face the Oklahoma City Thunder. That game is scheduled for 7 PM ET on ESPN. Following that, the Utah Jazz will play the Memphis Grizzlies. That matchup tips off at 9 PM ET on NBA TV. These games offer further opportunities for young players to develop and showcase their skills before the main NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were VJ Edgecombe’s stats in his summer league debut?
VJ Edgecombe, the No. 3 pick for the 76ers, had a standout debut at the 2025 Salt Lake City Summer League. He scored a game-high 28 points. Edgecombe also recorded a double-double with 10 rebounds. He added four assists, one steal, and two blocks in the game against the Jazz.
Where and when do the Sixers and Jazz play their next Summer League games?
Both the Philadelphia 76ers and the Utah Jazz play their next games at the Jon M. Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City on Monday night. The Sixers face the Oklahoma City Thunder at 7 PM ET on ESPN. The Jazz play the Memphis Grizzlies at 9 PM ET on NBA TV.
Which Jazz players stood out in the win over the 76ers?
Several Jazz players contributed significantly to their 93-89 victory. Kyle Filipowksi led the team with 22 points. Brice Sensabaugh scored 19 points, including five three-pointers. Cody Williams added 14 points. Walter Clayton Jr. provided 9 points and a team-high 6 assists off the bench.
The opening game of the 2025 Salt Lake City Summer League delivered excitement. It highlighted promising talent on both the Jazz and 76ers rosters. While VJ Edgecombe announced his arrival with a dynamic scoring display, the Jazz’s balanced attack, featuring strong performances from second-year players, earned them the win. Both teams will look to build on these outings as the summer league schedule continues, focusing on player development and evaluation.
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