Maxey urges resilience after Sixers’ collapse; Pelicans stick with Borrego; Thunder list Dort as questionable
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PHILADELPHIA — A 12-point third-quarter cushion vanished as the 76ers fell 114-105 to a short-handed Pistons squad, and guard Tyrese Maxey said the loss came down to mental toughness.
“You’ve got to be mentally tougher,” Maxey told The Philadelphia Inquirer after Friday’s defeat. “Early on we did a good job, but once they went on a couple of runs, you’ve got to stay with it.”
Forward Dominick Barlow echoed the frustration, calling the setback a “missed opportunity” and adding, “They outworked us… we’ve got to win that game.”
Philadelphia played the entire second half without Kelly Oubre Jr., who exited with a left knee injury and is scheduled for an MRI on Saturday. Oubre, averaging 18.0 points and 5.5 rebounds through 11 contests, had been a key contributor in the starting lineup.
Pelicans keep Borrego in charge
NEW ORLEANS — The Pelicans confirmed James Borrego will remain interim head coach for the balance of the season. Executive vice president Joe Dumars, who dismissed Willie Green after a 2-10 start, issued a statement alongside owner Gayle Benson announcing the decision.
Borrego, previously blocked from interviewing with the Knicks earlier this fall, now enters his third head-coaching stint after leading Orlando and Charlotte in past seasons.
Dort nearing return for Thunder
OKLAHOMA CITY — Thunder wing Luguentz Dort has been upgraded to questionable for Saturday’s game in Charlotte after missing five straight contests with an upper-trapezius strain, the team said. The All-Defensive First Team selection from last season could hit free agency next summer if Oklahoma City declines his $18.2 million team option for 2026-27.
Source: Hoops Wire
