Cameroon’s Joel Embiid made a double-double in his team’s NBA playoffs game on Monday, but it was not enough to steer Philadelphia Sixers over Boston Celtics, with the latter taking a 1-0 lead in the series.
It was a very close game with both teams winning two quarters apiece. However, Celtics showed more tenacity to see out the game with a 101-109 victory over Sixers.
The Big Embiid led by example for 76ers, making a team-high 26pts and then 16reb, more than any other player on the court. He also made two steals and a block in the game.
Although Sixers trailed by as much as 11pts in the 3rd quarter, they somehow overturned it and even led by 2pts at some stage in the 3rd quarter as well. But Celtics were better in the 4th quarter, making 12pts more than Sixers (34-22).
Embiid had a good game for Sixers, showing great leadership and why he is his team’s go-to player when things get tough for them. If Sixers are to turn it around in the series, they will hope that their big Center who just got back from an injury, will remain fit for their remaining games against Celtics.
“It’s not enough. Especially with the way I started the first quarter, I have to be more aggressive and be more assertive” Embiid said after the game.
Meanwhile, for Celtics, Semi Ojeleye was an unused sub and was not called off the bench in his team’s win. Having been a starter in their last game, Ojeleye made 13pts for his team last week against Washington Wizards.
