Championship celebrations spoiled: LeBron’s Sixers win at the Knicks

The Philadelphia 76ers, led by LeBron James, spoiled the New York Knicks’ championship ring ceremony. Following the presentation of the championship rings, the newly formed Sixers secured a 106–100 victory over the reigning champions.

It was a first statement of intent from the new-look Philadelphia 76ers. After the Knicks had raised their championship banner to the ceiling of Madison Square Garden before the match and the players had received their rings, the Sixers flexed their muscles for the first time and immediately snatched victory.

The visitors’ standout player was Tyrese Maxey, who made his mark with 28 points (9/19 FG), three steals and three blocks. LeBron James played for 34 minutes, scoring 14 points (5/13), grabbing nine rebounds and providing seven assists. With Joel Embiid (13, 4/15, 11 rebounds, 3 blocks) and Jaylen Brown (19), the other two members of the Big Four also scored in double figures.

For much of the game, it was fairly even between the two teams; New York led for long stretches but were unable to pull away. The game finally turned towards the end of the third quarter when Anfernee Simons (13) found his range and sank three three-pointers in three minutes. Shortly afterwards, Brown also scored twice from outside, and with an 11–0 run, the visitors took control.

Sixers catch New York off guard in transition

The hosts also looked a little tired, with Philly catching their opponents off guard on several occasions in transition. In total, the Sixers scored 24 points on the fast break and committed just twelve turnovers themselves. With 2:40 minutes remaining, Karl-Anthony Towns narrowed the gap once more to 98–100, but a dunk by VJ Edgecombe and another dunk following a steal by Maxey stifled the momentum. Jalen Brunson ultimately missed a three-pointer in the closing seconds, and LeBron sealed the victory from the free-throw line.

The Knicks made just 37 per cent of their shots and only a third of their three-pointers (11/33). Brunson was the top scorer with 21 points (6/19 FG), whilst the two big men, Towns (19, 12 rebounds) and Andre Drummond (12, 14 rebounds), each recorded double-doubles. OG Anunoby (10, 3/12 FG, 1/9 three-pointers), on the other hand, had an off day.

Philadelphia are back in action at home against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday night, whilst New York must travel to face the Boston Celtics a day later.