Tyrese Maxey scores 50 points, dedicates win to Kelly Oubre

PHILADELPHIA — Tyrese Maxey put on a stunning performance by scoring a career-high 50 points, while Joel Embiid added 37 points, leading the Philadelphia 76ers to their eighth consecutive win with a 137-126 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Sunday night. The 76ers are now sitting at an impressive 8-1 record for the season.

Maxey was on fire, shooting 20-for-32 from the field and contributing 7 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 blocks. This remarkable performance came in the first of two consecutive games between the two teams in Philadelphia. Maxey’s previous high was 44 points, achieved against Toronto on Oct. 28, 2022.

In a touching gesture, Maxey dedicated his outstanding performance to Sixers forward Kelly Oubre Jr., who suffered a fractured rib after being hit by a car on Saturday night. During his postgame interview, Maxey expressed, “This had nothing to do with me. This is all Kelly Oubre. We’re praying for him. Love my dawg. I just met him, but I love him. I hope he gets well soon.”

Oubre’s unfortunate incident occurred while he was walking near his home in Philadelphia, and while his injuries are not believed to be season-ending, he is expected to miss some game time.

Embiid also played a crucial role in the victory, tallying 13 rebounds in 33 minutes. This successful start to the season marks the 76ers’ best nine-game performance since their 10-0 opening in 2000-01, which ultimately led them to the NBA Finals.

Tyrese Haliburton led the charge for Indiana with 25 points, closely followed by Myles Turner with 22. Despite trailing by 19 points in the first half, Indiana managed to take their first lead at 105-104 early in the fourth quarter, only to be overtaken by the 76ers in an 18-6 run, culminating in Maxey’s putback of an errant Patrick Beverley shot.

Maxey has been stepping up in his role as the floor leader, averaging 25.6 points in the aftermath of the trade of James Harden to the LA Clippers.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.