From the opening tip to the final buzzer, it was a big night Monday for the 76ers, bouncing back to even their series with the Brooklyn Nets, 1-1.
Fueled by Ben Simmons’ second career playoff triple double, and a balanced all-around team performance, the Sixers sent a strong message in their lopsided 145-123 victory.
Here’s some of what was said postgame...
In a dominant showing, Ben Simmons finished with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists in 30 minutes. Simmons’ energy was undeniable on both ends of the floor:
Despite playing just 21 minutes, Joel Embiid showed once again why he’s one of the league’s best. Posting 23 points, 10 rebounds, an assist, and a steal, Embiid led his team in scoring. He didn’t attempt a single 3-pointer Monday, making a living in the paint:
Boban Marjanovic had his second strong performance in as many games, leading the bench with 16 points, eight boards, an assist, and a block. Bobi was particularly flashy when it came to his mid-range jumper -- which the Nets allowed him to shoot all night long -- and the big man took advantage:
The Sixers’ 51-point third quarter ties the NBA’s all-time playoff record for scoring in a single frame. The team started the quarter on a 21-2 run, and Brett Brown attributed his group’s offensive prowess to its defensive determination:
Tobias Harris was in attack mode in that third quarter, scoring 12 of his 19 points. He noted postgame this win held a little extra significance:
The Sixers will return to the court in Brooklyn for Game 3 on Thursday night at 8:00 ET, when they’ll seek to take the lead in the Round 1 series.