The Philadelphia 76ers just pulled off what many are calling the biggest upset of the NBA playoffs so far, knocking out the second-seeded Boston Celtics in a decisive Game 7. And if that wasn't enough, they did it by coming back from a 3-1 series deficit. Because apparently, that's where we are now.
After falling behind early in the series, the 76ers decided to make things interesting, winning the final three games to secure their spot in the next round. This comeback isn't just a good story; it's historic. It's the first time in the franchise's history that Philly has clawed back from such a hole, and only the 14th time any NBA team has managed the feat. Talk about making a statement.
Leading the charge was Joel Embiid, who apparently decided his emergency appendectomy on April 6 was merely a suggestion, not a limitation. Embiid, who missed the first few games of the series, returned to dominate with 34 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists in Game 7. Tyrese Maxey, not one to be outshone, dropped an additional 30 points and 11 rebounds, including a crucial eight-point run late in the fourth quarter to seal the deal. Which, if you think about it, is both impressive and slightly terrifying for Boston.
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The Celtics, who were widely considered championship contenders, had a rough night. Jayson Tatum, their star player, was sidelined with left knee stiffness after an early exit in Game 6. His absence clearly left a mark, though Jaylen Brown tried to pick up the slack with 33 points and nine rebounds. Still, shooting just 26.5% from three-point range and 39.8% from the field isn't exactly a recipe for playoff success.
76ers coach Nick Nurse, ever the pragmatist, highlighted his team's defense in those final games, noting how they managed to stifle the Celtics' offense. The Sixers, the seventh seed, will now face the New York Knicks in the second round. Let's see if they can keep that momentum going, or if the Knicks have something to say about it.
