While still managing Embiid’s minutes, the unbeaten 76ers are playing inspired ball

WASHINGTON (AP) — Joel Embiid was a spectator by the time the 76ers made their big push.

Perhaps Philadelphia could be interesting this season – even if its star big man is often limited.

Tyrese Maxey had 39 points and 10 assists and the 76ers used a 16-point fourth-quarter deficit to beat the Washington Wizards 139-134 in overtime on Tuesday night and remain undefeated.

Philadelphia 76ers gurad Tyrese Maxey (0) shoots past Washington Wizards forward Marvin Bagley III, left, and Wizards forward Keyshawn George during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/John McDonnell)

Embiid scored 25 points in a season-high 23 minutes, but as Philadelphia handled his workload, it was Maxey and Adem Bona who turned the game around late.

“We're still trying to figure out a lot of things,” coach Nick Nurse said. “But I think one of the things we've learned is to play hard and just play, no matter who's there or who's not.”

For the second night of a back-to-back, the 76ers scored the final 10 points of regulation. They then allowed the top five in overtime before going on a 9-0 run that kept them ahead.

Bona blocked four shots in the fourth quarter and another in overtime. His only points of the game came on a dunk with 27 seconds left, giving Philadelphia a 132–131 lead.

“He didn’t play very well early in the fourth quarter,” Nurse said. “Then he… blocked everything in sight when it mattered. Just a really good fight, a really good fight from our guys.”

The 76ers improved to 4-0, a welcome positive after they lost 58 games last season and entered this season with Embiid limited (knee) and Paul George still recovering from knee surgery.