Tyrese Maxey became a major irritant for the New York Knicks and their fans during Game 5 of the Knicks-Sixers first-round playoff series at Madison Square Garden.
Facing potential elimination in the 2023-24 season, the Philadelphia 76ers guard delivered a performance that extended their playoff life.
Down 3-1 in the series and trailing 96-90 with less than 30 seconds remaining, the Sixers called a timeout. What followed was a stunning sequence by Maxey. He was fouled by Mitchell Robinson while hitting a three-pointer and completed the four-point play at the free throw line.
After Josh Hart of the Knicks missed one of his free throws, Maxey hit another dramatic three from near half-court to tie the game, stunning the home crowd.
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Among the spectators was comedian Tracy Morgan, who watched in dismay as his team’s lead evaporated. In a moment of frustration, Morgan was seen gesturing towards Maxey with his middle finger after the guard’s game-tying basket at the buzzer.
Maxey ended the night with 46 points, including seven three-pointers, and his clutch three-pointer to force overtime. He then led the 76ers to a 112-106 victory over the Knicks, though they still trailed the series 3-2.
The series now returns to Philadelphia for Game 6, giving the Sixers another chance to stave off elimination and deny the Knicks their second playoff series win since 2013. Maxey’s heroics not only saved the season for Philadelphia but also prevented the Knicks from advancing and getting some extra rest before the next round.
