Sixers spoil Knicks' banner night with 106-100 win at Madison Square Garden
The 76ers crashed the Knicks' first championship banner raising in 53 years, winning 106-100 on opening night as LeBron James made his Philadelphia debut.
The Philadelphia 76ers spoiled the party on NBA opening night, beating the defending champion New York Knicks 106-100 at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday evening.
The Knicks raised their championship banner before tip-off — the franchise’s first NBA title in 53 years — but the Sixers refused to play the role of respectful guests. The game was part of the NBC/Peacock season-tipoff tripleheader, which concluded in the early hours of Wednesday morning US time.
LeBron James made his 76ers debut, posting 14 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists as he opened his record 24th NBA season in Philadelphia colours. Tyrese Maxey led the Sixers with 28 points, while fellow debutant Jaylen Brown added 19 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Joel Embiid contributed 13 points, 6 assists and 11 rebounds.
The loss marks a stuttering start to the Knicks’ title defence, with Philadelphia’s retooled line-up announcing itself as an immediate force in the Eastern Conference.
Sources: Sixers Wire, Sportradar, NBC/Peacock tripleheader live updates
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