In a stunning display of offensive prowess, Tyrese Maxey propelled the Philadelphia 76ers to their eighth consecutive victory, scoring a career-high 50 points in a 137-126 triumph over the Indiana Pacers on Sunday night. Maxey’s exceptional performance, combined with Joel Embiid’s 37 points, has solidified the 76ers’ standing at 8-1, marking their best nine-game start since the 2000-01 season.
Maxey, shooting an impressive 20 for 32 from the field, also contributed seven rebounds, five assists, and three blocks. This extraordinary showing comes on the heels of the 76ers playing without Kelly Oubre Jr., who suffered a rib injury in a hit-and-run incident. Embiid, referring to Maxey as “The Franchise” in past interviews, played a pivotal role in setting up Maxey’s final basket, a remarkable 32-foot step-back 3-pointer.
“Joel wanted me to get 50 more than even I did,” Maxey acknowledged. “When he gave me the ball, he said, ‘You are going to shoot this basketball.’ And that’s why I appreciate my teammates, my coaches, and the fans. It was a great night, and we got the win, which is what matters most.”
Embiid, contributing 13 rebounds in 33 minutes, emphasized the team’s unity and trust in each other. Despite the Pacers’ fast-paced play, the 76ers maintained their defensive composure, ultimately securing the win.
Philadelphia’s exceptional start to the season has been characterized by teamwork and resilience, even in the absence of key players. The victory over the Pacers, following a 19-point lead in the first half, showcased the team’s ability to respond and close out games effectively.
Tyrese Haliburton led the Pacers with 25 points, and Myles Turner added 22. Despite Indiana taking its first lead in the fourth quarter, the 76ers responded with an 18-6 run, culminating in Maxey’s putback of a Patrick Beverley’s errant shot.
“This is one of the top two or three teams in the entire league, and we know that,” acknowledged Pacers coach Rick Carlisle. “There are certain things that we can and will do better on Tuesday. We have to look at it, be honest about what they are and make those adjustments.”
Maxey, embracing his role as the floor leader following the trade of James Harden, has elevated his average to 28.6 points per game. The victory not only showcased Maxey’s scoring ability but also the team’s resilience in the face of adversity, emphasizing their position as a formidable force in the league.
