The Philadelphia 76ers missed Joel Embiid but managed to hold off the Indiana Pacers at home 129-126 in overtime. Philadelphia took a 13-man lead from him and with less than a minute left, he was down by four points, but was able to recover and take the win.
James Harden had 26 points, 8 assists and 6 rebounds to lead the way in Philadelphia, 19 points and 7 rebounds from DeAnthony Melton, and Tobias Harris had 19 points and 10 rebounds. Did. Tyrese Maxey also added 17 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds as he continues to work his way back from injury.
But the star of the night was Montrez Harrell. Jumping off the bench, he scored his 19 points with 5 rebounds and 4 blocks. He had his eight shots in his first, but ultimately missed his one in overtime.
The NBA’s Twitter had the best reactions to Harrell and the Sixers getting the job done at home.
Montrez Harrell, who set the building on fire with a putback slam when Maxxie’s floater toilet emerged from its basket. The Sixers have a 3-point lead with 1:34 remaining.
Harrell was fantastic in attack tonight. The Sixers also held the L firmly without Melton’s dominance 15 minutes ago.
— Austin Krell (@NBAKrell) January 5, 2023
Montrez Harrell deserves a round of applause for checking out after giving the Sixers 10 minutes of quality time: 12 points (5-5 FG, 2-2 FT), rebounds, assists, 3 blocks, +9 .He was good – probably the best he’s seen as a Sixer
— Adam Aaronson (@SixersAdam) January 5, 2023
Block* looked like steel from the other side.
— Paul Hadrick (@PaulHudrick) January 5, 2023
James Harden’s defense has gone from pretty solid to good since returning from injury. As a help defender, he uses his hands incredibly well.
— Jackson Frank (@jackfrank_jjf) January 5, 2023
James Harden’s defensive play in the final 30 seconds forced the Sixers into overtime.
— Kyle Neubeck (@KyleNeubeck) January 5, 2023
Deanthony Melton is the perfect sixer
— Eric Marturano (@TheEMart) January 5, 2023
Again, where would the Sixers be without Deanthony Melton?
— Paul Hadrick (@PaulHudrick) January 5, 2023
