NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals Begin: Knicks Overwhelm 76ers in Opening Game

Central News Agency (New York, May 4, Central News Agency) - The NBA playoffs entered the second round today, with the New York Knicks overwhelming the Philadelphia 76ers 137-98 in the first game. Jalen Brunson led all scorers with 35 points, giving the Knicks a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series. The Knicks dominated the game from the start, building a significant 74-51 lead by halftime. Brunson was on fire, scoring 11 individual points in the final three minutes of the first half, expanding the lead to over 20 points by the end of the second quarter with his leadership performance. In addition to Brunson, three other Knicks players — OG Anunoby, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Mikal Bridges — each contributed at least 17 points, showcasing a comprehensive suppression of their opponents. The team's interior shooting percentage reached 78.4%, far exceeding the 76ers' 51.6%; they also made 19 of 37 three-point attempts, which was another factor in their victory. For the 76ers, star player Joel Embiid fought hard but only made 3 of 11 shots, with a low shooting percentage of 27%, scoring only 14 points in total. The team's highest scorer was Paul George, but he also only had 17 points. The 76ers' "Big Three" of Embiid, George, and Tyrese Maxey faced suffocating Knicks defense, collectively making only 12 of 31 shots. The entire team also had 19 turnovers today. The Knicks' offense flowed smoothly today, with 34 assists, more than double the 76ers' 15 assists. This victory is a perfect start for the Knicks, who made it to the Eastern Conference Finals last year but lost to the Indiana Pacers. They are now striving for their first opportunity to reach the NBA Finals since 1999. (Compiler: Qu Xiangping) 1150505 Choose to stand with facts, every sponsorship of yours is a force to protect press freedom. Download the Central News Agency "First-Hand News" APP to stay updated with the latest news. The text, images, and videos on this website may not be reproduced, publicly broadcast, publicly transmitted, or utilized without authorization.