Sixers Extend Series, Force Game 6
Philadelphia kept their season alive, snatching a vital 113-97 victory at TD Garden to cut their series deficit to 3-2. The 76ers showcased remarkable resilience, erasing a seven-point halftime deficit to enter the final quarter with a one-point lead, before outscoring Boston 28-11 in the decisive fourth. Joel Embiid spearheaded the charge with 33 points and 8 assists, complemented by Tyrese Maxey's double-double of 25 points and 10 rebounds, alongside 5 assists. Despite Boston's bench contributing 29 points, notably 12 from Payton Pritchard, they struggled from deep, shooting just 28% from three (11/39) and committing 12 turnovers. Jayson Tatum battled for rhythm, finishing with 24 points and 16 rebounds, but lacked consistent offensive support. The Sixers' 50% field goal efficiency, coupled with a defence that held Boston to 61% from the free-throw line, proved pivotal. The series now shifts back to Philadelphia, where the 76ers must win two consecutive games to advance.