On January 9, 2021, the Philadelphia 76ers faced a Denver Nuggets game with only seven players available amid COVID-19 challenges. Rookie guard Tyrese Maxey seized the moment, scoring 39 points in his first professional start. The event marked the beginning of Maxey's rise as a key leader for the franchise.
The Philadelphia 76ers' matchup against the Denver Nuggets on January 9, 2021, stands out in NBA history due to the extraordinary circumstances surrounding it. With the league still navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and the NBA Bubble protocols, the Sixers could only field seven players for the game, earning them the nickname 'Seven Sixers.' This unusual situation arose from absences linked to health protocols, leaving the team short-handed.
Rookie guard Tyrese Maxey, in his debut start, delivered a standout performance by scoring 39 points. The game highlighted Maxey's potential, setting the stage for his evolution into one of the franchise's central figures. Players like Dakota Mathias were part of that depleted roster, alongside mentions of Joel Embiid, Tony Bradley, Danny Green, and coach Doc Rivers in related contexts.
Five years later, on January 9, 2026, reflections on that day underscore how 'everything was weird,' as recalled by the participants. The article from PhillyVoice captures these memories, emphasizing the historical significance without delving into the final score or further game details. This event remains a pivotal moment in Maxey's career trajectory within the NBA.
