Key Takeaways:
- Tyrese Maxey registered 36 points, including six in overtime, and contributed 10 assists as the 76ers secured a 128-122 win over Houston
- Joel Embiid recorded a triple-double with 32 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists
- Kevin Durant led the Rockets with 36 points, as Houston saw their three-game winning streak come to an end
Match Breakdown
The Philadelphia 76ers clinched a closely contested 128-122 overtime victory against the Houston Rockets on Thursday, thanks to impactful performances from Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid. Maxey delivered 36 points, with a crucial six coming in the extra period, and handed out 10 assists. Embiid posted a commanding triple-double, amassing 32 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists.
south Philly fun. 👏@cryptocom pic.twitter.com/jyQuLAmVhO
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) January 23, 2026
Statistical Overview
| Player | Team | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tyrese Maxey | 76ers | 36 | 2 | 10 |
| Joel Embiid | 76ers | 32 | 15 | 10 |
| Kelly Oubre Jr. | 76ers | 26 | 4 | 3 |
| Paul George | 76ers | 10 | 6 | 4 |
| Kevin Durant | Rockets | 36 | 7 | 3 |
| Amen Thompson | Rockets | 17 | 6 | 9 |
Game Flow and Key Moments
Following a competitive contest, Philadelphia grabbed the initiative in overtime, opening the period with five unanswered points – a three-pointer from Paul George and a close-range effort from VJ Edgecombe, who scored after an offensive rebound. The 76ers managed to even their record at home to 12-12, supported by Kelly Oubre Jr.’s 26-point contribution. Paul George, returning after missing two matches due to left knee injury management, chipped in with 10 points.
Maxey and Embiid’s efforts proved vital in a match where the 76ers saw their earlier fourth-quarter lead of 94-88 evaporate, as Houston surged ahead 105-96 with 6:25 remaining after Reed Sheppard connected on his third three-pointer of the quarter. Philadelphia responded, tying the encounter twice in regulation – the latest being Maxey’s layup with 40.1 seconds left to force overtime. Houston’s Kevin Durant equalled Maxey’s game-high scoring output and notably denied Maxey a winning layup with a block with 13.2 seconds remaining in regular time.
Team Updates and Notable Absences
The Rockets played without Aaron Holiday, who was ruled out due to back spasms after being listed as questionable, as well as centre Steven Adams (left ankle sprain). NBA Hall of Famer Julius “Dr. J” Erving, the driving force behind the 76ers’ 1983 NBA championship, was in the Wells Fargo Center crowd.
Looking Ahead
Houston will visit Detroit on Friday night, while Philadelphia are set to host the New York Knicks on Saturday.
