Justin Edwards Earns Multi-Year NBA Deal After Promising Rookie Season with 76ers
Justin Edwards’ basketball journey has been a rollercoaster of highs, challenges, and ultimate triumph — and now the former Kentucky Wildcat has solidified his place in the NBA with a significant multi-year contract extension with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Just two years ago, Edwards was riding a wave of hype as one of the top prospects in the 2024 NBA Draft, at one point projected as the No. 1 overall pick before his lone season with the Kentucky Wildcats. Expectations were sky-high, but his college season proved inconsistent, ultimately leading to a surprising outcome — he went undrafted.
Despite that setback, Edwards’ story didn’t end there. The Philadelphia 76ers saw potential and signed him to a two-way contract last summer. From there, Edwards steadily proved his worth on the court, displaying the kind of grit, scoring ability, and defensive acumen that every NBA team covets. His rookie season performance left no doubt: Justin Edwards was ready for the next step.
A Rookie Season to Remember
In his first year in the league, Edwards appeared in 44 games, including 26 starts, averaging solid numbers that reflect both his versatility and growth potential. He posted 10.1 points per game while shooting an efficient 45.5 percent from the field, contributed 3.4 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and averaged 1.0 steals per contest. His shooting from beyond the arc was notable too, knocking down 36.4 percent of his threes, a critical skill in today’s NBA.
April was particularly impressive for Edwards — a sign that his game was taking a significant leap forward. Over that month, his averages rose to 14.4 points per game on 45.9 percent shooting overall and 37.2 percent from deep, while also increasing his rebounds, assists, and steals per game. This surge highlighted his potential to be not just a role player but a consistent contributor on both ends of the floor.
From Two-Way Contract to Multi-Year Security
Recognizing his value and upside, the 76ers moved quickly to convert Edwards’ two-way deal into a standard NBA contract in February, signaling the team’s confidence in his future.
Now, reports confirm that Edwards is being rewarded with a new multi-year deal, according to NBA insider Shams Charania. The contract is reportedly worth $2 million in the upcoming season and includes two guaranteed years, meaning Edwards stands to earn over $4 million in the next two seasons.
This new deal is a testament to his perseverance and steady improvement — from a player who went undrafted to one who now enjoys financial security and a clear role on a contending NBA team.
What This Means for the 76ers and Edwards’ Future
The 76ers have been looking to bolster their depth with young, versatile wings who can score, defend, and contribute on the boards — and Edwards fits that mold perfectly. His blend of shooting, athleticism, and defensive instincts provides Philly with a reliable option off the bench and potential for growth into a more prominent role.
For Edwards, the contract isn’t just about money — it’s a clear signal that the organization believes in his development and future impact. At just 21 years old, Edwards has a chance to carve out a long and successful NBA career if he continues building on the promise he showed last season.
A Bright Road Ahead
Justin Edwards’ journey from draft disappointment to multi-year NBA contract is a powerful reminder that perseverance and hard work pay off. His promising rookie season with the 76ers has set the stage for what could be a breakout sophomore year.
Philadelphia fans and NBA observers alike will be watching closely as Edwards continues to grow, eager to see if he can become the consistent two-way threat that the 76ers need as they push toward championship contention.
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