Tobias Harris led the Philadelphia 76ers with a standout performance, scoring 37 points, as they ended a three-game losing streak by defeating the Sacramento Kings 112-93 during Friday night’s NBA action. This victory extended the 76ers’ winning streak against Sacramento to 10 games, dating back to 2019.
Harris shined in the first quarter with 14 points, his highest in any quarter this season, and maintained his momentum throughout the game. This was his highest-scoring game in a regular-season match during his six seasons with Philadelphia and his best performance since scoring a career-high 39 points for the Los Angeles Clippers in 2018.
Reflecting on the game, Harris joked about missing the 40-point mark and emphasized the importance of such games for his confidence and preparation. He also played a crucial role defensively, effectively limiting Kings’ Domantas Sabonis to 14 points.
“I wish it was a closer game because then I probably would have gotten (to 40 points),” Harris said, laughing. “For me personally, having big games like that are important. Confidence-wise, game-wise, and preparation.”
76ers coach Nick Nurse acknowledged Harris’ effort, especially given the physical demands of defending Sabonis, and encouraged him to continue his intensity in the second half.
“He had 23 at the half and he was puffing pretty hard,” Nurse said. “He was taking a lot of shots from Sabonis. He was playing hard at both ends, which was good for him to withstand it, but (at halftime) I told him, `Forget about the first half and get revved up to do it again.’ … I thought he did a decent job.”
Harris’ back-to-back 30-point games marked a first in his career. The 76ers, without Joel Embiid due to left knee soreness, as well as forwards Kelly Oubre Jr. and Robert Covington, saw significant contributions from other players. Nicolas Batum added 14 points, and Paul Reed and Mo Bamba stepped up in Embiid’s absence, contributing effectively on both ends of the floor.
Tyrese Maxey, who scored 21 points, highlighted the importance of team effort in Embiid’s absence, especially in defensive roles.
“I keep talking about it: When Joel goes out, those guys have got to step up,” Maxey said. “Joel protects a lot of us and cleans up at the rim, and those guys did the same thing tonight.”
As Harris became a significant offensive threat, the Kings adjusted their defense, allowing Maxey more scoring opportunities. Kings coach Mike Brown praised Maxey, comparing his fearless approach to that of Allen Iverson and predicting a bright future for him in the league.
“He’s not Allen Iverson, but he’s fearless like A.I. was,” Brown said. “He’s going to be a tremendous talent in this league for a long time.”
De’Aaron Fox led the Kings with 21 points, with Malik Monk and Keegan Murray each adding 15 points. Both teams struggled with shooting in the first quarter, but the Sixers surged ahead in the second quarter, with Batum scoring eight points in a minute, including back-to-back 3-pointers. This push extended Philadelphia’s lead to 22 points, and the Kings couldn’t close the gap.
The Kings were without Kevin Heurter due to an ankle sprain.
Looking ahead, the Kings will face the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday night, while the 76ers will host the Houston Rockets on Monday afternoon.
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