The Philadelphia 76ers experienced an overtime defeat against the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday night, concluding with a score of 139-132.
READ: New York Businesses Ordered to Require Masks Indoors or Vaccine Proof
Atlanta Hawks
Tobias Harris and De’Anthony Melton made their return to the Sixers’ lineup, while Joel Embiid remained sidelined due to knee swelling.
The game featured a showdown between backup centers, with Paul Reed stepping in for Embiid and Atlanta’s Onyeka Okongwu substituting for Clint Capela. Okongwu’s impressive performance, contributing 11 points, helped the Hawks secure a three-point lead after the first quarter.
Despite a brief scoring drought in the second quarter, the Sixers managed to enter halftime with a 64-61 lead, showcasing a well-rounded offensive effort and solid defense against Trae Young.
Both teams displayed limited defense in the third quarter, resulting in a 34-34 tie. The Sixers maintained their narrow lead. However, the Hawks surged ahead in the fourth quarter as Young took charge. Harris and Maxey’s efforts helped the Sixers reclaim the lead, but a late-game three-point play by the Hawks tied the score, forcing overtime.
In overtime, Maxey fouled out on a questionable call, and the Hawks secured a three-point lead with under 40 seconds remaining. Despite the Sixers’ efforts, including Harris being blocked in the final possession, the Hawks emerged victorious with a 139-132 win.
This marked the Sixers’ first three-game losing streak of the season. They aim to break this streak in their upcoming home game against the Sacramento Kings on Friday.
Key Performances:
Tyrese Maxey: 35 points, 8 rebounds, 9 assists, 4 steals. Maxey showcased a tale of two halves, struggling in the first but excelling in the second, leading the Sixers in forcing overtime.
Tobias Harris: 32 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 block. Harris contributed significantly to the offensive load, displaying consistent production throughout the game, especially in the fourth quarter.
Marcus Morris Sr.: 17 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist. Morris delivered a season-high performance, scoring 17 points, including three triples in the second period, showcasing his scoring prowess.