URGENT UPDATE: In a thrilling finish, the Philadelphia 76ers narrowly defeated the Golden State Warriors 99-98 on Thursday night, thanks to a jaw-dropping block by Tyrese Maxey. This critical play not only showcased Maxey’s defensive prowess but also preserved the 76ers’ victory at the Xfinity Mobile Arena.
With only seconds left on the clock, Maxey sprinted from one end of the court to the other, executing a perfectly timed block on a potential game-winning layup by Warriors guard De’Anthony Melton. This heart-stopping moment ensured the 76ers avoided what would have been a devastating collapse, having previously held a commanding 24-point lead.
“I just wanted to make a play and try to help us win that game,” Maxey stated after the match.
The win comes just four days after the 76ers suffered a double-overtime loss to the Atlanta Hawks. In this latest matchup, despite the absence of key players like Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, the Warriors managed to erase a significant deficit, putting pressure on Philadelphia until the final buzzer.
In a dramatic turn, rookie guard VJ Edgecombe secured an offensive rebound off a missed shot by Maxey and tipped it in with just 0.9 seconds remaining, giving the 76ers a 99-98 lead. Maxey praised Edgecombe’s effort, saying, “He made a hell of a play. For him to be able to track the ball and tip it in? That was a great play.”
As time expired, Warriors guard Buddy Hield attempted a last-ditch effort, passing the ball the length of the court to Melton, who appeared ready to score. However, Maxey’s incredible speed allowed him to catch up and deliver the game-saving block, resulting in jubilant celebrations among his teammates.
“The block was amazing,” said Joel Embiid, who was sidelined during the game’s final moments. “I almost forgot where we actually made the game-winning layup. I had to ask after.”
Looking ahead, the 76ers aim to extend their winning streak to three games against the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday. However, both teams will be missing star players; Giannis Antetokounmpo is out for the Bucks due to a calf injury expected to sideline him for 2 to 4 weeks, while Embiid will also miss the matchup following his recent return from knee soreness.
Meanwhile, Paul George sat out Thursday’s game but is expected to return in Milwaukee, and forward Kelly Oubre will undergo further evaluation next week following an LCL sprain.
The 76ers’ latest victory not only highlights Maxey’s emergence as a two-way player but also underscores the team’s resilience in the face of adversity. Fans are eager to see how they will perform against a Bucks team that also faces significant challenges.
