The Brooklyn Nets arrived on a five-game losing streak, giving the Sixers every hope of snatching a result. After all, it wouldn’t be the first time it’s happened recently! As the first half came to a close, it looked as though they may just walk away on top. That all of the pieces are finally fitting together. However an incredible second half from the Nets put those thoughts to rest.
A win would have completed a very successful homestand and also give them back to back wins after taking down Sacramento prior to the matchup. Things seemed unlikely in the first as Nerlens Noel, Henry Sims and Jerami Grant all found themselves committing fouls. But despite a weakened, the Sixers clawed their way forward and somehow ended the first on a 20-9 with a 29-27 lead.
The second quarter was almost identical. Brooklyn took control early, but the Sixers charged late on, once again outscoring the Nets and sealing a half time lead with an Ish Smith walk-off. The Sixers walked off the court with their heads held high in every bit of confidence that they could take the win here. All they needed to do was keep playing their game and not let the pressure get to them.
However,everything turned on it’s head in the second half. The Nets outscored the Sixers 23-10 in the third and this time were able to withstand the late surges to cling on for victory. The defence stepped up big time and momentum somewhat went from a late charge to mid desperation. The Nets used this and did what the team do best.
Only four Sixers players hit double figures with an overall shooting percentage of just 37. An embarrassing 8 for 37 3 pointers were converted which is simply not acceptable. It’s great to see so much creativity flowing but if they don’t have the prowess outside the paint then it’s simply wasting away good opportunities to close the game. Once again Nerlens Noel led the 76ers with 17 points, picking up six rebounds, two assists, two blocks and a steal along the way.
The Sixers close out their five-game home run with a 2-3 record which in comparison to the rest of the year isn’t actually that bad and now head up to Boston to face a similarly inconsistent Celtics team. Is there another surprise win in the making?
