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In an Eastern Conference semifinal matchup with all the makings of a classic, the Philadelphia 76ers emerged victorious against the Boston Celtics, thanks to an incredible performance from James Harden.
In an Eastern Conference semifinal matchup with all the makings of a classic, the Philadelphia 76ers emerged victorious against the Boston Celtics, thanks to an incredible performance from James Harden.
The ten-time All-Star poured in a playoff career-high 45 points to lead the 76ers to a 119-113 win at the TD Garden, stealing home-court advantage.
Harden's scorching hot shooting proved the difference, as he knocked down seven three-pointers and hit several big shots down the stretch to seal the victory.
His 45-point outburst was the highest-scoring playoff game for a Sixers player since Allen Iverson dropped 55 points in 2003.
The game had a playoff atmosphere from the opening tip, as both teams went back and forth in a thrilling first half. The Celtics were led by Jayson Tatum, who finished with 39 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists, while Jaylen Brown added 23 points and six rebounds.
However, the 76ers were undaunted, as Tyrese Maxey chipped in with 26 points and four steals, and Tobias Harris had 18 points and five rebounds.
The absence of Joel Embiid, who sat out with a knee injury, did not faze the 76ers, who showed resilience and determination in the face of a hostile Boston crowd.
They shot a blistering 17-of-38 from beyond the arc, with Harden leading the way with seven of them. Despite the win, the 76ers are aware that there is still work to be done.
They know that the Celtics are a proud and experienced team and that winning on the road in the playoffs is never easy.
However, they can take heart from the fact that they have now won 13 of their last 18 games without Embiid, a testament to their depth and versatility.
The series remains in Boston for Game 2, but the 76ers will look to build on their momentum and take a commanding lead in the series before they head back to Philadelphia or Game 3 .
Whether or not Embiid can play remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: the 76ers have a superstar in Harden who can take over games and lead his team to victory.
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