With their backs against the wall, the Philadelphia 76ers refused to go home without a fight.
The Sixers grabbed a massive victory in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference semifinals to force a decisive Game 7. The Raptors were unable to capitalize on an opportunity to end the series and to move on to face the Milwaukee Bucks in the conference finals.
Philadelphia was motivated by a rowdy home crowd at the Wells Fargo Center on Thursday night. Both fans and the team knew that a loss would put an end to what has been a special season.
There was relatively little drama on Thursday, as Philly led without relinquishing their advantage for the final 39 minutes of the game.
Jimmy Butler led the Sixers with yet another big performance, scoring 25 points and notching 8 assists and 6 rebounds.
All of Philadelphia’s starting five finished in double figures, including Ben Simmons, who scored 21 points on only 13 shot attempts in an ultra-efficient performance. Star center Joel Embiid struggled to score once again, making only 5 of 14 from the field, but he did finish the night with 17 points and 12 rebounds.
Kawhi Leonard, once again, led Toronto’s futile effort with 29 points and 12 rebounds.
Now, the two teams will clash in a do-or-die Game 7 which the Raptors will host on Sunday night. A ticket to the Eastern Conference Finals is on the line.
