INDIANAPOLIS — Tyrese Maxey was the standout performer for the Philadelphia 76ers, scoring 10 of the team’s 13 points in overtime and finishing the game with a season-high of 45 points, leading his squad to a 118-114 victory against the Indiana Pacers. This win marked the 76ers’ first of the season.
Maxey excelled particularly in the second half, contributing to 14 of Philadelphia’s last 18 points in the third quarter, helping the team overcome a 102-97 deficit with just a minute remaining in regulation. Alongside Maxey, Caleb Martin added 17 points and grabbed 12 rebounds for the 76ers, while Eric Gordon chipped in 15 points on his return to his home state. Andre Drummond also made an impact, scoring nine points and securing 17 rebounds.
On the other side, Pacers All-Star Tyrese Haliburton made a significant comeback after a quiet performance on Friday in New York, finishing with 22 points. His notable moment included a remarkable 3-pointer with just 3.5 seconds remaining to tie the game, compelling it into overtime. However, he struggled with his free throws and missed two crucial attempts near the end of the overtime period that could have leveled the score at 116. Pascal Siakam contributed 17 points for Indiana, who faced disappointment, marking their fourth loss in a home opener over the past 17 seasons.
Key takeaways from the game reveal that with star players Joel Embiid and Paul George sidelined due to knee injuries, Maxey stepped up significantly for the 76ers, averting an 0-3 start to the season. For the Pacers, their fast-paced offensive strategy has yet to materialize effectively this season, and they will need to regain their rhythm as the games continue to unfold.
A critical moment came when Haliburton, who had been struggling with turnovers towards the end of regulation, redeemed himself by tying the game at 105 with his clutch 3-pointer. However, he misfired on a free throw attempt with five seconds remaining in overtime and intentionally missed the subsequent shot, allowing the 76ers to secure the rebound and clinch the victory.
A notable statistic from the matchup highlighted Indiana’s free-throw shooting, going 23 of 34 from the line, yet they were outmatched on the boards with a 54-37 rebounding deficit, which included a disheartening 20-7 on offensive rebounds.
Looking ahead, the 76ers will return to their home court to face the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday, while the Pacers will take on the Orlando Magic on the road on Monday.