76ers relied heavily with a crucial victory over the Miami Heat 105-104

Despite Joel Embiid's ongoing struggle with form following his return from knee surgery, the Philadelphia 76ers relied heavily on their star center to secure a crucial victory over the Miami Heat, prevailing 105-104 in a tense contest. Embiid, though not at his peak, delivered 23 points, playing a pivotal role in the Sixers' comeback from a 13-point deficit in the third quarter.

Embiid's performance in the second half was particularly noteworthy, as he scored 13 crucial points, including a go-ahead three-pointer with 2 minutes and 33 seconds left on the clock. The lead seesawed before Embiid found Kelly Oubre Jr. for a decisive basket and free throw, securing the lead for Philadelphia with just 36 seconds remaining. Reserve player Nicolas Batum emerged as a surprise hero for the Sixers, contributing 20 points, with 17 coming in the second half.