Justin Edwards Bio
Justin Edwards is an American professional basketball player for the Philadelphia 76ers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the Kentucky Wildcats. He was a consensus five-star recruit and one of the top players in the 2023 class.
Early Life and Background
Justin Edwards was born on December 16, 2003, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He grew up in a supportive environment, with his mother, Ebony Twiggs, who played college basketball at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania and overseas in Portugal. Edwards attended Imhotep Institute Charter High School, where he began to make a name for himself in basketball.
During his time at Imhotep Institute Charter High School, Edwards helped his team win the Philadelphia City championship as a sophomore. He continued to excel in his junior year, averaging 18.3 points and 8.3 rebounds per game, leading his team to the PIAA Class 5A state championship. His performance in high school garnered attention, and he participated in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League.
Path to Basketball
Edwards was recognized as a consensus five-star recruit and ranked as one of the top players in the 2023 class by various recruiting services. He was rated as the #1 overall recruit in the nation by ESPN in January 2023. After considering offers from several prestigious programs, he committed to play college basketball for the University of Kentucky on July 25, 2022.
In his senior year, Edwards averaged 17.9 points and 7.5 rebounds, leading his team to another state championship and earning the title of Mr. Pennsylvania Basketball. His high school career was marked by participation in prestigious events such as the 2023 McDonald’s All-American Boys Game and the Nike Hoops Summit.
Justin Edwards Career
Early Career (2023-2024)
Justin Edwards enrolled at the University of Kentucky in June 2023. During the summer before his freshman year, he played for the Wildcats in the GLOBL JAM tournament in Canada, where he averaged 14.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.8 steals over four games, helping his team win the tournament. During his freshman season, he averaged 8.8 points and 3.4 rebounds in 32 games played.
After his freshman year, Edwards declared for the 2024 NBA draft. Although he went undrafted, he signed a two-way contract with the Philadelphia 76ers on July 4, 2024, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Breakthrough (2024-Present)
Edwards made his professional debut with the Philadelphia 76ers after signing his contract. On January 14, 2025, he scored a career-high 25 points on 9-of-16 shooting in a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. His performance earned him a standard NBA contract with the 76ers on February 9, 2025. He continued to impress, tying his career-high of 25 points in a game against the San Antonio Spurs on March 21, 2025.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his early career, Justin Edwards has established himself as a promising player in the NBA, with notable achievements including being a McDonald’s All-American and Mr. Pennsylvania Basketball. His transition from college to professional basketball has been marked by significant performances and a growing reputation.
Justin Edwards Award Nominations
Justin Edwards has received several accolades throughout his basketball career, including being named a McDonald’s All-American and Mr. Pennsylvania Basketball in 2023.
Justin Edwards Awards Won
Edwards has won multiple awards, including the Jordan Brand Classic and Nike Hoop Summit in 2023, highlighting his talent and potential as a basketball player.
Justin Edwards Family
Justin Edwards is the son of Ebony Twiggs, who has a background in basketball, having played at the collegiate level and overseas.
Personal Life
Details about Justin Edwards’s personal life are limited, but his mother, Ebony Twiggs, has played a significant role in his basketball journey, providing support and guidance throughout his career.
