Tyrese Maxey was a hero for the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday. Playing against the Milwaukee Bucks, Maxey exploded with a career-high 54 points, expertly leading his team to a stunning 123-114 overtime victory.
The Bucks were without superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, further giving Maxey the chance to dominate on the court. However, during a postgame interview, Maxey revealed the surprising inspiration behind his energy.
76ers’ Tyrese Maxey Reveals What Inspired Him Before Posting Career-High 54 Points
Following the 76ers’ win, Maxey spoke to the media about his motivation for scoring so well. Maxey, a young rising star in Philadelphia, chose to credit veteran Paul George.
“You know why I did that? Because Paul George really hit the ground running,” Maxey said postgame. “He came out and set the tone. We needed that for the back-to-back, and I had to match his energy.”
Maxey went on to praise George, adding that the 35-year-old star “looks great.”
“He looks great. We need that, man. We’re blessed to have Paul George on our team. What he brings on the offensive end, we saw that, and then what he brings on the defensive end as well. He can guard at least four positions.…We’re gonna really need that down the stretch of the season,” Maxey concluded.
Fans, of course, were in awe of Maxey’s performance.
The 25-year-old scored a career-high 54 points, nine assists, three steals, and three blocks against the Bucks, convincing fans that he is indeed the future of their organization.
George was the much-needed support for Maxey, scoring 21 points, five rebounds, and three assists. Previously with the LA Clippers for five years, this is George’s second season with the 76ers. The veteran forward has brought a sense of stability to the team, providing guidance and leadership to a younger core with players like Maxey.
George added that Maxey is ‘special’, praising his younger teammate.
“He’s gifted. I think what you guys don’t see and what stands out is after the game, on a back-to-back, 50, 45-plus minutes, he goes and lifts. That just speaks volumes to who he is, why he’s where he’s at,” George explained.
Maxey, on his end, is also averaging an impressive 33.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 7.9 assists per game while shooting 47.3% from the field.
Maxey Also Achieved a Significant Feat That Puts Him Alongside NBA Legend Wilt Chamberlain
Along with dropping a career-high, Maxey is also the only 76ers player after Wilt Chamberlain to score at least 50 points and nine assists in a game. Maxey was highly grateful for the opportunity, saying, “Blessed. I thank God for it. Any time you’re in a conversation with Wilt, who scored 100 points, you can’t complain.”
Following their game against the Bucks, the 76ers will play the Miami Heat next on Saturday, November 20.
