The Philadelphia 76ers kicked off their NBA preseason with a dominating 55-point victory over the New Zealand Breakers. The game proved to be an opportunity for the rotation players in the Sixers’ roster, especially with stars Paul George and Joel Embiid resting on the sidelines.
Sixers scorers
Leading the way for the Sixers was Tyrese Maxey, who wiped off preseason with 15 points in just 12 minutes of play. French sensation Guerschon Yabusele matched Maxey's stat line, scoring 15 points and not missing a single shot, hitting all six of his attempts. Veteran Reggie Jackson also made his mark, contributing 15 points and establishing his role as a backup point guard for the Sixers.
For the Breakers, after being outscored 40-19 in the first quarter, they struggled to stay competitive in the game. Parker Jackson Cartwright led all scorers in the game with 26 points and was only three players in the New Zealand roster to reach double digits in points.
Karim OUT
Mexican prospect Karim Lopez, who is a potential lottery pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, was a game-time decision but ultimately sat out due to wrist discomfort. His previous game against the Utah Jazz, Karim showed his potential, as he recorded 13 points and 7 rebounds against the likes of Walker Kessler and Lauri Markkanen.
''I showed myself I can compete with these guys,'' Lopez said after the Jazz game. ''I just gotta keep working. Still got a long way to go but if I do that I'll be good.''
The Breakers will face the Oklahoma City Thunder next before returning to Auckland for the NBL Regular Season. Meanwhile, the Sixers have five more preseason matchups ahead of their season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks on October 23rd at the Fiserv Forum.
