Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers found themselves in a difficult spot entering the fourth quarter of Game 5 against the Boston Celtics on the road.
At halftime, the Sixers trailed 57-50. They were shooting just 42.5% from the field, compared to Boston’s 51.5%. The Celtics seemed to be in total control, as Joel Embiid hadn’t hit his true stride offensively.
The third quarter was a different story. The Sixers ended up outscoring the Celtics 35-29. Embiid produced 10 points in the quarter, as the team shot over 60.0% from the field. Entering the fourth quarter, the Sixers trailed by just one point. Boston led all game long, with the lead as high as 13 points.
Joel Embiid And The Sixers Make NBA History
GettyATLANTA, GEORGIA – NOVEMBER 17: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts during the second quarter against the Atlanta Hawks during an NBA In-Season Tournament game at State Farm Arena on November 17, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)
via OptaStats on X: Last night the @sixers trailed by 1 entering the 4th quarter. They ended up winning by 16. That’s the largest road playoff win in NBA history by a team that trailed entering the 4th.
That’s the largest road playoff win in NBA history by a team that trailed entering the 4th.
The 76ers dominated the Celtics in the fourth quarter of Tuesday’s game. Embiid checked in for all but two minutes. He had re-entered the matchup after injuring his knee moments before.
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JANUARY 24: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers celebrates a basket during the second half against the New York Knicks at Xfinity Mobile Arena on January 24, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
The star center made all but one of his shots from the field, producing eight points. He helped the Sixers outscore the Celtics 28-11.
Suddenly, the Sixers managed to possess the biggest lead of the night after changing the lead just once. The Sixers ended up winning the game 113-97. They have officially forced a Game 6, which is set to take place on Thursday, April 30.
The Sixers Are In Win-Or-Go-Home Mode
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – MARCH 25: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers warms up prior to the game against the Chicago Bulls at Xfinity Mobile Arena on March 25, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
While the Sixers pulled off a remarkable comeback on Tuesday night, they are still considered to be in desperate times.
After losing three out of the first four games, the 76ers don’t have any cushion. The team is heading back home and planning to play for their season on Thursday night at Xfinity Mobile Arena in South Philadelphia.
The Celtics are 2-0 in the postseason in Philly this season, but the 76ers stole the momentum of the series on Tuesday night. Soon, we’ll see if that makes a difference.