Finally, the Sixers have defeated the Celtics this year; the Eastern Conferences version of the San Antonio Spurs, who also happen to have the best record in the NBA.
The Sixers also knocked off the Spurs. And, they beat the Suns, Mavericks, and Pistons as well. It appeared that the 76ers were going to lose another one to the Celtics when they were down by 11 in the fourth quarter, but then the Celtics went stone cold when the Sixers simultaneously stepped up their D to another level-a playoff level.
Samuel Dalembert and Andre Iguodala were keys on that 19-0 run. Dalembert battled with Garnett, while Iguodala made big play after big play.
Yes, the upstart Sixers have defeated other good teams, but this one was a coming of age win. They did on Boston's home court and with their backs against the wall they just made it happen.
I liken this victory to the Eagles' "Pickle Juice" game in their season-opener against the Cowboys in the 2000 season. That win was a statement and it meant the Eagles were back on the rise.
Last night Philadelphia's next hope for a championship told the NBA loud and clear that they're on the way up and they will be there for a while. This is one of the greatest parts of sports, seeing a young team on the ascent. It's almost as good as the beginning of a budding relationship.
With last night's win, the Sixers jumped to 6th in the Eastern Conference with a 36-35 record. This also happens to be the first time they've been over .500 in three years. They have eleven games remaining and can conceivably go 9-2 or 8-4. They face Chicago, Phoenix, Cleveland, Jersey, Atlanta in back to back nights, Detroit, Indiana, Washington, Cleveland, and end the season at Charlotte. Phoenix, Detroit, and Cleveland are all tough games; the rest are easily winnable.
Get ready for the ride to the top. It's going to be fun. Welcome the Sixers as the new hope for Philly.
2 comments:
The Sixers are back baby! Andre and Andre are taking us back to the top!
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