Tyrese Maxey-led Sixers outlast Magic in play-in tournament, will face Celtics in first round of playoffs

April 16, 2026 - 10:40

The Philadelphia 76ers are officially back in the NBA playoffs, securing their spot with a hard-fought 105-104 victory over the Orlando Magic in the Eastern Conference play-in tournament. After missing the postseason last year, the team punched its ticket behind a stellar performance from guard Tyrese Maxey.

The game was a tense battle from start to finish, with neither team able to build a commanding lead. Orlando's size and defensive pressure kept them within striking distance throughout the contest. However, when it mattered most, Tyrese Maxey took over. The All-Star guard delivered a series of crucial baskets and key plays down the stretch, leading all scorers and steadying his team in the final minutes to clinch the narrow win.

With the victory, the 76ers claim the Eastern Conference's seventh seed. Their reward is a first-round playoff series against the top-seeded Boston Celtics, setting up a classic rivalry renewal. The matchup promises to be a major test for Philadelphia, but the resilience shown in overcoming Orlando provides a surge of momentum as they prepare for the challenge ahead. The team's focus now shifts entirely to the daunting task of competing with the conference's best.