Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey had a career-high 50 points during a victory over the Pacers on Sunday night.
The rising star continued his offensive ascension with an efficient outing, shooting 20-of-32 from the field and 7-of-11 from beyond the arc. But according to Maxey, the performance had nothing to do with him.
He said that the outing had everything to do with Kelly Oubre, his 76ers teammate who was struck by a vehicle while walking near his residence in Philadelphia on Friday.
Oubre sustained a fractured rib and other injuries after he was struck. The car fled the scene and local authorities are investigating the incident.
Tyrese Maxey dedicates his 50-point career night to Sixers' teammate Kelly Oubre Jr. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/yp0VbezQCT
— NBA (@NBA) November 13, 2023
Here is what he said during his on-court walk-off interview:
“Man, this had nothing to do with me. This is all Kelly Oubre, man. We’re praying for him and love my dog, man. I just met him but I love him. I hope he gets better soon.”
But that wasn’t it from Maxey when discussing his teammate.
Tyrese Maxey on the Kelly Oubre news: pic.twitter.com/LlqoyzxRRn
— HoopsHype (@hoopshype) November 13, 2023
During his postgame press conference, Maxey continued to show love to Oubre. He said:
“It’s really hard, honestly. When I got the news, I thought it wasn’t real. I didn’t think it was real. But I shot him a text as soon as possible, as soon as I could. It hurts, man. That’s sad, man. It’s a sad deal. … We just want to show our love to him, tell him we love him. Shout out to K.O., man. He’s a fighter, so we know he’ll be okay.”
Meanwhile, 76ers head coach Nick Nurse presented Maxey with the game ball for his stellar showing against Indiana. Maxey immediately made due to his promise to show love to Oubre.
what a night for @TyreseMaxey.
& a special s/o to our guy K.O. ❤️💙 pic.twitter.com/4IOnsenLfb
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) November 13, 2023
He and his teammates all recorded a thoughtful message to send to Oubre.
According to Nurse, the 76ers forward is out of the hospital and “resting” back at his home.
