NBA Legend Issues Public Apology To 76ers After Shocking Game 5 Comeback

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After losing Game 4 by 32 points at home, the Philadelphia 76ers looked cooked. They were down 3-1 in their first-round playoff series against the Boston Celtics and were facing elimination in Game 5 at TD Garden.

Sure enough, the Celtics controlled most of Game 5 on Tuesday, taking a double-digit lead in the second half and taking a lead into the fourth quarter. 

With their backs to the wall, the 76ers didn't quit. They mounted a shocking comeback in the fourth quarter, outscoring Boston 28-11 and emerging with a stunning 113-97 victory.

After watching the Sixers extend the series and send it back to Philadelphia, NBA legend Magic Johnson issued a public apology to them on X on Tuesday night.

I have to apologize to the Philadelphia 76ers for thinking the Series was over after Game 4. Tonight, the 76ers beat the Celtics and were led by the dominant inside play of Joel Embiid - he had 33 points and 8 assists! He had plenty of help from Tyrese Maxey’s 25 points, Paul…— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) April 29, 2026

"I have to apologize to the Philadelphia 76ers for thinking the Series was over after Game 4. Tonight, the 76ers beat the Celtics and were led by the dominant inside play of Joel Embiid - he had 33 points and 8 assists! He had plenty of help from Tyrese Maxey’s 25 points, Paul George’s 16 points and Quentin Grimes’ 18 points off the bench which included four 3’s! Grimes also played solid on the defensive end which helped the 76ers beat the Celtics 113-97!" wrote Johnson, who showered Boston with praise after Game 4.

"My hat goes off to 76ers Coach Nick Nurse who had an awesome game plan and had his team believing that they could beat the Celtics on the road in Boston!" he concluded.

The Sixers will need a similar performance from Nurse and their stars if they want to win Game 6 at home on Thursday and force Game 7.

More NBA: Celtics Star Admits Uncomfortable Truth After Game 5 Implosion Vs. 76ers