76ers Overcome History: Embiid Shines in Game 7 Triumph Over Celtics
In a stunning turn of events, the Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Boston Celtics 109-100 in Game 7 on Saturday, overcoming a 3-1 series deficit to advance in the playoffs. This victory marked the first time the Sixers had beaten the Celtics in the postseason since 1982 and brought an end to Joel Embiid's Game 7 struggles, as he had previously been 0-3 in such situations. Embiid, who had recently undergone an emergency appendectomy, delivered a stellar performance, leading all scorers with 34 points, along with 12 rebounds and six assists in 39 minutes of play. His return transformed the team's dynamics, as noted by Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla, who remarked that Embiid's presence made the Sixers a "completely different team". Throughout the series, Embiid averaged 28 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists per game, making history as the first player to miss three games in a seven-game series yet score over 100 total points. The 76ers were not solely reliant on Embiid; Tyrese Maxey also shone in Game 7, contributing 30 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists. Together, they became the first duo in NBA history to each achieve 30 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists in a Game 7. Other key contributors included VJ Edgecombe, who scored 30 points in Game 2, and Paul George, who played a crucial role after returning from a suspension. Their combined efforts ensured that the Sixers finally vanquished their long-standing rivalry with the Celtics. Looking ahead, the 76ers now face the New York Knicks, who recently defeated the Atlanta Hawks. Embiid and his teammates are determined to continue their playoff journey, aiming for the franchise's first conference finals appearance since 2001.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-05-03