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By Rafael Bandayrel
The Philadelphia 76ers forced a winner-take-all Game 7 after defeating the Boston Celtics, 106-93, in Game 6 of their first-round Eastern Conference playoff series on Friday (PH time) at Xfinity Mobile Arena.
The Sixers took control in the third quarter, blowing the game open with a lead that reached as high as 23 and carrying an 82-63 cushion into the fourth.
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Boston attempted a comeback with an 11-0 run to trim the deficit to 12, but Philadelphia quickly responded with an identical 11-0 surge to restore a commanding margin.
All five Sixers starters finished in double figures, led by Tyrese Maxey, who poured in 30 points and five assists.
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Paul George added 23, while Joel Embiid recorded 19 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists. VJ Edgecombe and Kelly Oubre Jr. chipped in 14 apiece.
With the series now tied at 3-3, Game 7 is set for Sunday in Boston, with the winner advancing to face the New York Knicks in the second round.