BOSTON (AP) – Joel Embiid scored 33 points, and Tyrese Maxey contributed 25 points and 10 rebounds, as the Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Boston Celtics 113-97 in Game 5 of their first-round playoff series on Tuesday night.
The seventh-seeded 76ers, who faced elimination after losing Games 3 and 4 at home, managed to stay alive in the series by overcoming a 13-point deficit in the third quarter, setting the stage for a critical Game 6 in Philadelphia on Thursday.
Game Highlights
In his second game following an emergency appendectomy, Embiid played a pivotal role in the 76ers’ comeback. He scored 13 points in the second quarter and added another 10 in the third, helping the team to a significant 12-0 run that transformed a narrow three-point lead into a commanding 15-point advantage.
Celtics Performance
Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 24 points and 16 rebounds, while Jaylen Brown contributed 22 points. Despite their efforts, the Celtics could not maintain their earlier lead as the 76ers rallied.
Looking Ahead
With Game 6 scheduled for Thursday night in Philadelphia, the 76ers aim to force a decisive seventh game against the Celtics, who currently lead the series 3-2. The outcome of this upcoming match will be crucial for both teams as they seek to advance in the playoffs.