MAXEY STEPS IN FOR EJECTED 'BRO' EMBIID

It's love, Sixers guard says after shining in chaotic Spurs win in Cameroonian's absence

- By: [Author's Name]

PHILADELPHIA - Philadelphia's Joel Embiid had teammate Tyrese Maxey to thank, following his ejection after confronting a female referee in the 76ers' 111-106 win over San Antonio in a wild night of NBA action on Dec 23.

An expected big-man showdown between Cameroonian Embiid and France's Victor Wembanyama ended late in the first half, leaving Maxey to produce 32 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists in sparking the National Basketball Association (NBA) victory.

"It's big time," Maxey said of getting the win for Embiid. "We're learning to play without him... We've got to change the game, come a little faster, play a little harder and gain rebounds."

Embiid came onto the court after the game and hugged Maxey after the guard's late surge with a steal, dunk, three-pointer and free throw in a game-ending 9-3 spell to deliver the home triumph.

"It's love, man," Maxey added. "That has been my big brother for a long time."

Chaos started 3min 47sec into the second period when Wembanyama tumbled after contact with Philadelphia's Andre Drummond, who was ejected for a second technical foul.