76ers’ bizarre late-game strategy leaves fans asking questions

Tyler Lauletta

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76ers’ bizarre late-game strategy leaves fans asking questions image

Game 1 of the first-round series between the Philadelphia 76ers and New York Knicks got off to a hotly contested start on Saturday, with the Knicks eventually pulling out a 111–104 victory over their long-time rivals.

While the game was close throughout, one odd strategy choice by the Sixers late in the game raised eyebrows from fans and media alike.

With the Knicks leading 109–104 with 30 seconds to play, the Sixers decided not to foul on defense to stop the clock and potentially extend the game. Instead, Philadelphia allowed OG Anunoby to wait until there was less than seven seconds to play before he put up a shot.

While the shot missed, the Knicks came down with the offensive board, and two free throws later, the game was over.

Fans were perplexed by the decision, and let their frustrations out over social media.

Game 2 between the Sixers and Knicks tips off on Monday night at the Garden.

Tyler Lauletta

Tyler Lauletta Photo

Tyler Lauletta has been working in sports media for nearly a decade, with stops at Business Insider and Sports Illustrated. Residing just outside Philadelphia, he is a recovering Truster of the Process and remains a sicko for the Eagles, Sixers and Phillies. He’s covered the Super Bowl and World Series from the press box and hopes to finagle his way into Wimbledon in the near future. You can follow him on X/Twitter @tylerlauletta.