Tyrese Maxey has become one of the NBA’s brightest young guards. But directing dogs through an agility course is a different challenge entirely and one that left the 76ers star laughing, sweating, and joking about staying in his lane.
Maxey appeared at the 2025 National Dog Show, stepping in as a guest handler for a special agility segment that aired on NBC on Thanksgiving. What followed was equal parts adorable, chaotic, and unforgettable.
Tyrese Maxey Sweats Through Agility Course With Howie and Spike
Maxey participated in the Purina Pro Plan Incredible Dog Challenge Agility Show, recorded November 16 before a crowd of nearly 15,000 at the Kennel Club of Philadelphia.
Maxey was tasked with guiding two trained pups — Howie and Spike — through a legitimate agility course featuring tunnels, weave poles, hurdles of various heights, and even a suspended tire jump.
“It’s been amazing,” Maxey said on NBC. “I’ve been able to walk around and see a lot of different dogs… I wish my dogs could come here and learn some skills.”
But the real fun began once he stepped onto the course. Maxey sprinted beside the dogs, shouting commands “Jump,” “Tunnel,” “Weave,” while holding toys to keep them focused.
Professional handlers usually complete the course in 18 to 21 seconds. Maxey’s first run with Howie was a chaotic 41 seconds after the dog preferred tug-of-war with the 76ers forward over weave poles.
His second run with Spike looked noticeably smoother, clocking a respectable 30 seconds.
Maxey couldn’t stop laughing afterward: “They got me out here sweating. Like I just played a whole quarter. I think I’m going to stick to staying on the court.”
Why Maxey Was the Perfect Pick for the Segment
Show officials first contacted the 76ers to see if any players might be up for the gig. Maxey was a natural fit since he owns three dogs and even has previous experience with agility training.
The NBA guard appeared in a 2024 State Farm commercial with The Players’ Tribune, where professional trainers Perry DeWitt and Jessica Ajoux taught him the basics of dog agility work.
His comfort around dogs made him an instant on-set favorite, and his enthusiasm showed throughout the segment. Despite the fumbles, Maxey embraced the challenge with full energy, turning the agility course into an unexpectedly wholesome NBA – Dog Show crossover moment.
The National Dog Show, a Thanksgiving Day staple, now has a memorable new highlight, one that blends high-level athleticism, pure chaos, and Maxey’s trademark joy.
The 2024 NBA All-Star will suit up next against the Brooklyn Nets on Friday, November 28.