Chalk One Up For The Process

For the past few years, winning has not been an autumn endeavor for the Philadelphia 76ers. The fall is strictly for setting expectations low, and the precious few wins come scattered throughout the winter and spring. But not anymore, folks. Last night, for the first time since 2013, the Sixers won a game before the month of December.

Philly ended a streak of 44 straight October and November losses by defeating the Indiana Pacers in overtime by a score of 109-105. Blowing a five-point lead with 25.4 seconds left seemed like it might be setting the Sixers up for a second-straight overtime loss, but it wasn’t to be, and as has been the case with most things related to the Sixers this year, Joel Embiid was the best part. Even with a playing-time restriction still intact as he eases himself back from a broken foot (limited to 25 minutes on Friday night), the rookie led the team in scoring, with 16 of his 25 points coming in the fourth quarter and overtime.

He also had seven rebounds, two assists and one nifty chase-down block.

The Sixers are now 1-7. Rejoice.