Brunson takes over as Knicks smother Sixers
NEW YORK, United States — Jalen Brunson produced a dazzling 35-point performance as the New York Knicks pummeled the Philadelphia 76ers, 137-98, to grab a 1-0 lead in their NBA Eastern Conference semifinal playoff series on Monday (Tuesday Manila time).
Knicks talisman Brunson led a dominant New York offense that erupted for 74 points in the first half and was always in control against a dangerous Sixers side that upset second-seeded Boston in the first round.
OG Anunoby provided Brunson's offensive support with 18 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges added 17 points apiece in front of a star-studded crowd at the Madison Square Garden.
The win was the perfect start to the best-of-seven series for the Knicks, who are chasing a first appearance in the NBA finals since 1999.
Brunson set the tone for a lopsided evening in the first quarter, pouring in 14 points as the Knicks surged into a 33-25 lead.
The 29-year-old point guard kept the points flowing in the second quarter as the Knicks rattled in 41 points to take a 74-51 lead into halftime, with Brunson icing the half with a superb 3-pointer from 25 feet.
New York never looked like surrendering that advantage over the remainder of the game, leading by as many as 40 points in the fourth quarter before cruising home.
Philadelphia's big three of Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid and Paul George failed to fire, shooting a combined 12-of-31 in the face of a stifling New York defense.
The Knicks will aim to double their series lead in Game 2 in New York on Wednesday (Thursday Manila time).
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