The Philadelphia 76ers were heavy favorites heading into their road matchup against the Washington Wizards, hoping to hand the host team its 12th loss in 13 games. Reigning MVP Joel Embiid returned from a two-game absence to bolster their lineup, and Tyrese Maxey continued his stellar play.
Maxey, the cat-quick point guard, caused problems for the Wizards early on, driving into the lane at will to set up teammates or score himself. His aggressiveness matched Embiid's, making the Sixers a formidable force.
Just before halftime, Maxey pulled off a stunning play that ignited the crowd. With Wizards shooting guard Jordan Poole looking for the last shot, Patrick Beverley anticipated his move and slapped the ball away. Nic Batum scooped up the loose ball and sent it to Maxey, who nailed a halfcourt buzzer-beater to give the Sixers a 62-60 lead at the break.
Washington, desperate to end their losing streak, played well in the second half. They packed the paint to prevent Maxey from driving to the rim, forcing him to take outside shots. Maxey struggled from deep, missing several mid-range shots and going 1-for-5 from three-point range.
Fortunately for the Sixers, Embiid was on fire. He poured in 43 points on 17-for-25 shooting, adding 12 rebounds, seven assists, one steal, and one block. His dominance kept the Sixers in the game as they clung to a 122-116 lead with 2:31 left in the fourth quarter.
With their two superstars leading the way, the Sixers looked set to secure the win. However, Maxey, who had been quiet in the second half, made a crucial play in the closing minutes. He stole the ball from Wizards guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and drove to the basket, drawing a foul and converting on the and-one to put the Sixers up by five with just over a minute remaining.
The Wizards tried to mount a comeback, but Maxey's clutch play proved to be the difference. The Sixers held on for a 124-119 victory, snapping their recent losing streak and handing the Wizards their 12th loss in 14 games.
Maxey finished with 16 points, six assists, and three rebounds, while Embiid's 43 points were enough to earn him Player of the Game honors. The Sixers will look to build on this win as they continue their quest for a championship.
