The Philadelphia 76ers pulled off a gritty 118-114 upset over the Boston Celtics, overcoming a late rally to win their eighth game in the last 11 outings.
Joel Embiid, battling through a pregame fall and playing with a protective mask for a sinus fracture, led Philadelphia with 27 points, nine rebounds, and four assists in just 30 minutes.
this is how Embiid got injured in warmups pic.twitter.com/MIUrNDzORd
— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) December 25, 2024
The former MVP showcased his range by hitting four of five triples, including clutch free throws with three seconds remaining to secure the win. He just had to troll the home crowd though.
Embiid waves goodbye to Boston fans as Philly walks away with the Christmas win 🎄 pic.twitter.com/c0AQWDeebj
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 26, 2024
Tyrese Maxey was electric for the Sixers, pouring in 33 points and 12 assists, with 13 of his points coming in the decisive fourth quarter.
The victory improved Philadelphia to 11-17, showcasing their resilience as they climb the standings. Boston, now 22-8, dropped back-to-back games for the first time this season.
Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 32 points and 15 rebounds, while Jaylen Brown and Derrick White added 23 and 21 points, respectively.
However, the absence of Kristaps Porzingis, who left in the first half due to an ankle injury, left the Celtics vulnerable. The Sixers built a 16-point lead in the third quarter, but Boston clawed back to within two in the final minute.
Philadelphia’s poise in crunch time, fueled by Embiid and Maxey, proved too much for the Celtics, who now face questions about consistency after consecutive losses.
