The 2020-21 season continues to inch a little closer for the Philadelphia 76ers as they are set to play their first preseason game on Tuesday against the Boston Celtics.
In that game, coach Doc Rivers will be playing a bit of a regular rotation in order for his new team to get used to each other as well as working in the younger guys in the second half.
Rookie Tyrese Maxey is a guy who fits both criteria as he figures to be in Rivers’ rotation when the season starts on Dec. 23 against the Washington Wizards. He has not played a competitive game since March while in college at Kentucky so this will be something special for him.
“I think just playing basketball again,” Maxey beamed. “Just playing and getting to play five-on-five in practice is amazing just because, last year the season ended so abruptly. So just playing, the love of the game, the joy, being competitive again, and all that. That’s what I’m really looking forward to.”
As far as what he wants to do on the floor, he just wants to fill his role off the bench and help the Sixers win basketball games. He averaged 14.0 points and 4.3 rebounds while in college so if he can bring something close to that off Philadelphia’s bench, it would go a long way in helping the team win.
“I think to go out there and help the team,” the rookie added. “Do whatever I need to do to help. Keep the pace going, whatever coach Doc asked me to do, that’s what I will go out and do and have fun while doing it. Then being the biggest cheerleader as well.”
Of course, as a rookie, he will have some guidance from the veterans on the team. Guys such as Tobias Harris, Ben Simmons, Mike Scott, and others have taken him aside and they have answered any questions he had and helped him with anything he needs.
“I think I’ll say for the most part, definitely, Tobias, Ben, and Mike Scott for sure,” he stated. “It’s amazing. It’s amazing to have guys who’ve been to the ropes guys who know the ins and outs of the league. They know the game and the way that coach wants to play the game, and it feels great to have those guys on the side.” [lawrence-related id=40156,40150,40144]