The Philadelphia 76ers opened the 2026-27 NBA season with an impressive 106-100 victory over the defending champion New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
With LeBron James and Jaylen Brown joining the roster this offseason, Philadelphia showcased its new star-powered lineup. Tyrese Maxey led all scorers with 28 points, while Brown added 19, James contributed 14 and Joel Embiid finished with 13. All four stars recorded at least five assists.
The Sixers overcame a double-digit deficit in the second half and held off a late New York comeback with strong defensive execution.
James provided key help defense, Brown disrupted New York's isolation attacks and Maxey delivered a crucial steal and dunk late in the fourth quarter. Embiid struggled offensively, shooting 4-for-15, but made a major defensive impact with two steals and three blocks.
Philadelphia also demonstrated promising offensive chemistry, using creative screening actions involving multiple stars to generate open shots and driving opportunities.
James even spent several minutes playing center in smaller lineups, creating additional offensive options and setting up Brown for a dunk.
For New York, Jalen Brunson scored a team-high 21 points but shot just 6-for-19 from the field. The Knicks struggled to generate efficient offense down the stretch, allowing Philadelphia to secure a statement win on opening night.
The victory offered an encouraging first look at the Sixers' potential as they begin their pursuit of an NBA championship.