In a memorable encounter on Tuesday night, Philadelphia 76ers star Tyrese Maxey not only led his team to a convincing 118-104 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers but also marked the end of a five-year wait to ask LeBron James for a special favor.
Maxey, who was instrumental in the 76ers' win with a stellar 43-point performance, took the opportunity after the game to approach LeBron James. "I told him after the game, 'look man, I waited five years to ask for a jersey… I think I'm going to get it this year,'" Maxey revealed in the postgame press conference. James, known for his mentorship and support for younger players, responded with a nod of approval, saying "alright cool."
Maxey's admiration for James is well-documented, and he often refers to James as a "big brother." The two share the same agent, and Maxey has had the chance to work out with James several times during the summer. This respect is rooted in James's significant contributions to the game, which Maxey has always admired.
The game itself was marked by significant performances from both teams, despite the absence of key players. The 76ers played without Joel Embiid and Paul George, while the Lakers lost Anthony Davis early in the game due to an abdominal muscle strain. Maxey's leadership and scoring prowess were crucial in the 76ers' victory, as he extended his career-best streak of 25-point games to 11 straight.
LeBron James, despite the loss, had a notable night as well. He scored 31 points for the Lakers and moved into sixth place on the NBA's career steals list. His son, Bronny James, also saw some playing time in the first half, although he did not score.
The win for the 76ers opens a six-game homestand on a positive note, with upcoming matches against the Sacramento Kings, Denver Nuggets, Boston Celtics, Dallas Mavericks, and Miami Heat. As Maxey continues his sensational stretch, his efforts are not going unnoticed by James, who appreciates the young star's dedication and skill.
In a season filled with adversity for the 76ers, Maxey's performance and the impending gift from James serve as a beacon of hope and motivation for the team as they strive to secure a spot in the NBA Play-In Tournament.