Facing elimination in Boston, the Philadelphia 76ers turned to Joel Embiid to save their season. The reigning MVP delivered, leading Philly to a gritty 113-97 victory over the Boston Celtics in Game 5 on Tuesday night. Despite trailing by 13 points in the third quarter, the Sixers fought back to force a Game 6 in Philadelphia.
Joel Embiid, who underwent emergency surgery for an appendectomy just twenty days ago, willed his team to victory with 33 points and 8 assists. After a slow start from deep, Embiid shifted to an aggressive interior game, fueling a decisive 20-8 run that flipped the momentum. Tyrese Maxey provided critical support, becoming the first Sixer since 1971 to record at least 25 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists in an elimination game.
The Sixers’ defense proved equally vital, holding the Celtics to just 11 points in the fourth quarter. Quentin Grimes added 18 points, including several key buckets during a 28 -11 final-frame blitz. Jayson Tatum led Boston with 24 points and 16 rebounds, but the Celtics were unable to sustain their early lead against Philly’s relentless surge.
The series now shifts back to Philadelphia for Game 6 on Thursday. Down 3 to 2, the Sixers will look to capitalize on their newfound momentum to force a deciding Game 7.