Tyrese Maxey scored a career-high 54 points, including clutch free throws to tie the game in the final seven seconds of regulation, leading the Philadelphia 76ers to a 123-114 overtime victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday at Fiserv Forum. The performance marked Maxey’s second consecutive heavy-minute outing, as he logged over 46 minutes in back-to-back games.
“I was blessed. Anytime you in a conversation with Wilt [Chamberlain], who scored 100 points. Can’t complain,” Maxey said postgame, reflecting on joining an elite company of scorers. He added that a stiff thigh from the previous night’s game had him questioning whether he could play but he pushed through with treatment and preparation.
Philadelphia trailed late in the fourth quarter, but Maxey’s composure at the line sent the game into overtime, where the 76ers opened with a 5-0 run. Paul George contributed 21 points, complementing Maxey’s historic night, while the team overcame the continued absence of Joel Embiid, sidelined with a right knee injury.
Maxey credited his preparation for sustaining high performance, saying, “I just work really hard. Try to take care of my body. Al’s been on me, trainer. He’s been on me since the summertime about getting in the right shape, getting in condition, lifting after games, getting treatment.” His approach has helped him maintain the league-leading average of 40.3 minutes per game.
Despite scoring 54 points, Maxey emphasized team goals over personal stats. “I don’t really care. I just want to win. As long as I play to win, that’s what matters,” he said, noting the importance of staying aggressive without forcing shots.
Maxey’s improved decision-making was evident, especially against Milwaukee’s zone defense. He explained, “They were in zone the entire half so I didn’t have to move too much… I didn’t feel tired. If you want me to stay, I can stay. And he let me stay.” His ability to adapt helped him efficiently distribute nine assists in addition to his scoring.
The Bucks received strong contributions from Ryan Rollins, who scored a career-high 32 points with 14 assists, but it was not enough to overcome Maxey’s all-around effort. Philadelphia shot 43% from the field and 34% from three-point range, holding an edge on the boards 52-42.
Maxey acknowledged the support of teammates and staff in sustaining his production. “I watch film every day, try to get better every day. My little brother Jordan Harris cut off film every day for me. We’ve just been students of the game.” His meticulous preparation and confidence in his shot selection have fueled his breakout performances this season.
The 76ers improve to 9-6, snapping a brief two-game losing streak, while Milwaukee falls to 8-8. Philadelphia will host the Miami Heat on Sunday, continuing to rely on Maxey’s scoring prowess in the absence of Embiid.
