By: @oossports
The Philadelphia 76ers finally broke through against the Boston Celtics in a way the franchise had not in decades.
On Saturday, the 76ers secured a 109-100 Game 7 victory, completing a stunning comeback from a 3-1 series deficit and advancing to the Eastern Conference semifinals.
76ers make history against Celtics
Philadelphia entered the game carrying the weight of history.
Before this win, the franchise had never come back from a 3-1 deficit, holding an 0-18 record in those situations. Boston, meanwhile, had never lost a series after leading 3-1, entering at 32-0.
Both streaks ended in the same night.
The victory also marked the 76ers’ first playoff series win over Boston since 1982, snapping a run of six straight losses in the rivalry.
Embiid and Maxey deliver all-time performances
Joel Embiid led the way with one of the defining playoff performances of his career.
He finished with 34 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists, controlling the game on both ends. Tyrese Maxey matched that impact with 30 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists.
The duo became the first teammates in NBA history to each record at least 30 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists in a Game 7.
Maxey reflected on the breakthrough after the game.
“We had a chance to beat them three years ago, didn’t do it. We came in and got it done,” Maxey said, as noted in a report by ESPN’s Tim Bontemps. (Souce)
Celtics battle despite key absence
Boston entered Game 7 without Jayson Tatum, who was ruled out with knee discomfort.
Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla confirmed the decision pregame, leaving Boston to rely on an unfamiliar starting lineup in the biggest game of its season.
Despite the setback, the Celtics stayed competitive throughout.
Late surge seals it for 76ers
Philadelphia built an 18-point lead in the third quarter, but Boston responded early in the fourth.
The Celtics cut the deficit to one multiple times, including a late push that brought the score to 97-96 with just over five minutes remaining.
At that point, the game shifted.
Boston missed nine consecutive shots down the stretch, opening the door for Maxey to take over. He scored eight straight points in the final two minutes, creating the separation Philadelphia needed to close out the win.
76ers move on
With the victory, the 76ers advance to face the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Game 1 is set for Monday night in New York, as Philadelphia looks to carry its momentum forward after one of the most significant wins in franchise history.
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