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NBA: Maxey ‘Blessed’ To Replicate Embiid, Iverson And Chamberlain Feat As 76ers Outlast Spurs
Maxey’s stellar display marked his third 50-point game of the season, further bolstering the Sixers’ chances of bypassing the Play-In Tournament as they secured their fifth consecutive win.
In accomplishing this milestone, Maxey joins a prestigious club comprising Joel Embiid, Allen Iverson, and Wilt Chamberlain as the only players in franchise history to achieve a half-century of points three times in a single season. Notably, Chamberlain holds the NBA record, achieving this feat in 45 games during the 1961-62 season.
Reflecting on the significance of his achievement, Maxey humbly stated, “For my little self to be mentioned with those guys, hey, I’m happy, I’m blessed. I didn’t want to let us lose. I just wanted to do whatever I could and exert all my energy. I could live with the result after that.”
Maxey’s exceptional performance proved crucial in compensating for the absence of Joel Embiid, who was rested following three consecutive games after his return from knee surgery.
Having previously recorded 50-point games against the Indiana Pacers in November and the Utah Jazz in February, Maxey’s consistent excellence has contributed to Philadelphia’s historic accomplishment. With Embiid also recording three 50-point games this season, the Sixers have become the first team in NBA history to have multiple players achieve this feat three times in a single campaign.
Acknowledging Maxey’s impact, Philadelphia forward Nicolas Batum praised his teammate, stating, “Tyrese has been amazing for us all year long… He led the way for us. He kept fighting for us.”
Philadelphia staged a remarkable comeback, outscoring San Antonio 30-20 in the final nine minutes of regulation, with Maxey’s crucial layup tying the game at 111 and forcing overtime. The Sixers eventually emerged victorious after a second additional period.
Despite Maxey’s heroics, Victor Wembanyama’s impressive performance of 33 points, 18 rebounds, and six assists for the Spurs went in vain. Batum recognized Wembanyama’s potential, suggesting that once he gains more experience, few teams will be able to contain him.
“He’s special,” Batum remarked of the rookie. “It was a good call from [Spurs coach Gregg] Popovich when he said this may be his worst season.”
