In a thrilling overtime battle, the Atlanta Hawks, led by Jalen Johnson’s pivotal performance, clinched a 139-132 victory against Tyrese Maxey and the Philadelphia 76ers. The Hawks, who have had a challenging start to the season with a 15-21 record, improved their home performance to 6-9, emphasizing the importance of winning on home court.

Johnson was instrumental in the victory, scoring key free throws in overtime and nailing a crucial 3-pointer with 39 seconds left. His overall contribution included 25 points, 16 rebounds, and seven assists. The Hawks were also buoyed by Trae Young’s 28 points and Dejounte Murray’s 25.

Maxey shone for the 76ers with an impressive 35 points, nine assists, eight rebounds, and four steals, but fouled out in overtime due to a foul drawn by Young. Philadelphia coach Nick Nurse expressed frustration at the sixth foul call on Maxey, especially given his dynamic performance. The 76ers, who were without Joel Embiid due to knee swelling, experienced their third consecutive loss.

The game saw both teams without their starting centers due to injuries. Embiid’s absence was particularly felt by the 76ers, while Atlanta’s Onyeka Okongwu stepped up with 19 points and 11 rebounds, filling in for Clint Capela. De’Andre Hunter of the Hawks also missed the game due to knee inflammation.

Despite not traveling with the team, Embiid worked out in Philadelphia, with Nurse expressing hope for his return against Sacramento. The Hawks leveraged Okongwu’s presence, especially in the absence of Embiid.

This victory ends a two-game losing streak for the Hawks and marks their first win against the 76ers in three attempts this season. Philadelphia’s Robert Covington was also sidelined due to knee swelling.

The Hawks, having played the fewest home games in the league before this match, faced a schedule reminiscent of their inaugural 1967-68 season in Atlanta.

Looking ahead, the 76ers will host the Sacramento Kings, while the Hawks welcome the Indiana Pacers, both games scheduled for Friday night.