Sixers Edge Knicks 98-93 in NBA Cup Group Play Opener

Philadelphia's Sixers opened NBA Cup Group Play with a 98-93 victory over the New York Knicks on Friday, improving to 1-0 in the tournament and 5-1 in the regular season. The team displayed strong two-way play, with all five defenders staying active and the offense moving the ball quickly.

Tyrese Maxey was efficient, while LeBron James delivered his most aggressive performance of the season, finishing with 20 points and eight assists. James knocked down early three-pointers, posted against Mikal Bridges for an and-one, and later delivered a cross-court pass to Kentavious Caldwell-Pope for a three-point shot.

VJ Edgecombe contributed a key three-pointer from the top of the key and said before the game, "It does feel like I’ve played him a lot. Obviously played in the playoffs. I think I was just telling one of the coaches, I was like, 'The Knicks is the team I’ve played the most since I got in the NBA.' But yeah, obviously he’s a great player. Really smart. Tough shot-maker. And like I said, I just try my best to just contain. If we’re being realistic, you won’t hold anybody to zero points – especially someone of his caliber. He’s a great player and I just try my best to make it difficult."

Anfernee Simons added a second straight game-changing three-pointer off the bench, and VJ Edgecombe’s defense helped limit Knicks star Jalen Brunson’s early scoring. The Sixers held a five-point lead with 11.9 seconds remaining, sealing the win.

The team will next face the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday night.