After a three-game road trip that resulted in three losses, the Philadelphia 76ers finally got back into the win column after defeating the Brooklyn Nets on Friday 113-98.
Ahead of the Emirates NBA Cup showdown, the Sixers listed Joel Embiid as questionable due to left knee injury management and ruled him out before the game began. But rookie guard Jared McCain stepped up in his absence and finished with 30 points and six rebounds on 55% shooting from three-point range.
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Philadelphia jumped out to an early lead before Brooklyn responded strongly and made it a one-possession game. Both squads fought for momentum in the final quarter before Philly’s young backcourt took over.
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Although both teams had similar shooting percentages, Philadelphia put up 13 more shots as well as 13 more free throws than Brooklyn did.
Ultimately, Cam Johnson led the way for Brooklyn with 37 points on 67% shooting from the floor. For Philadelphia, Tyrese Maxey had 26 points, five assists and four steals to go along with McCain’s 30-point night.
Both teams will play on Sunday, with the Sixers hosting the L.A. Clippers and the Nets traveling to California to face the Sacramento Kings.
James Parker is an NBA writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
