It became a norm to mock and critique the process, a term or slogan that was adapted to describe the state and future hopes of Philadelphia basketball. They were challenged to overcome doubts and statistics alike. Analysis examined constantly the cost for this team to beat the odds in order to establish a firm winning season. Then something happened, the 2019 NBA games. The Philadelphia 76ers (47-26) stand at third place in the Eastern Conference and clinched a playoff berth on Sunday March 17 with high hopes.
The lineup consisted of Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, and veteran JJ Redick. These three were admired throughout Philadelphia previous seasons, but something was missing. As games pressed on into late quarters, all eyes could tell the team would benefit from bench depth. Injuries and lack of player support prolonged the process of Philadelphia from enjoying NBA playoffs at Wells Fargo Center. The 2019 season brought some promising potential and key components. Board meetings studied the numbers and compared the odds, calls were made, and then suddenly the headlines erupted: Sixers welcome all-stars Jimmy Butler and Tobias Harris.
Sunday March 17 revived reminscening emotions Philadelphia fans felt back in the early 2000’s. These same emotions that were buried deep in disappointment of years and years without a Sixers playoff appearance, one that ended a long streak (six seasons) last year. Their entry did not come easy as that had to overcome the team with the best record in the NBA, the Milwaukee Bucks.
This game did not only eradicate the doubts that Sixers can defeat elite teams, but it also ensured the chemistry developing between this diversely talented rotation. The team played outstandingly. Embiid had himself a 40-point game returning from knee soreness that sidelined him for a few games. His teammates contributed to the Sixers dominating performance with Butler scoring 27, Redick 19, and Harris 12 points.
As the playoffs draw near the 76ers look to tighten up a few nuts-n-bolts. Their coach, Brett Brown, is confident the team can strengthen their chemistry within the remaining few weeks. The new additions to the team have given the Sixers a strong position to succeed, they simply seek to discover the most effective way to corporate each player.
Right now it’s a great time to be a Philadelphia sports fan as the city gets to witness big name talent while enjoying some extended season games. Become a part of the magic. Plan a trip or host a game, it’s possible we are watching history in the making, don’t miss out.
Paul McConnell 
Daniel Finegan 
Will Cunningham