Basketball May 21, 2025

Philadelphia 76ers 2024–25 Season Recap and NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 Preview

The Philadelphia 76ers’ 2024–25 NBA campaign was one of immense expectation, hard-learned lessons, and renewed hope. Although the season was marred by injuries and inconsistencies, the Sixers now look to reset and showcase their potential on the global stage at the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025. With stars like Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey leading the charge, the franchise is determined to turn the page and prepare for a stronger showing in the 2025–26 season.

2024–25 Season Overview: Hype, Setbacks and Promise

The offseason brought excitement to Philadelphia as the 76ers landed nine-time All-Star Paul George on a four-year, $212 million deal. The trio of George, 2023 NBA MVP Joel Embiid, and All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey was meant to form the nucleus of a championship-calibre squad under new head coach Charles Lee.

Embiid’s Loyalty and Struggles

In September 2024, Embiid further committed to the Sixers by signing a three-year, $193 million extension. “Philly is home,” he stated at the press conference. “I want to bring a title to this city.” Unfortunately, injuries limited his participation to just 39 games. Despite setbacks, Embiid still averaged 27.9 points, 10.2 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game — elite numbers that reminded fans of his dominance when healthy.

George’s Disrupted Start

George, expected to be the franchise’s second scoring option, never found consistent form. After recovering from a preseason knee issue, he averaged 16.2 points across 41 games before another injury in March ended his season prematurely. Critics questioned the front office’s investment, though team officials maintain confidence in his recovery.

Maxey Becomes the Franchise Cornerstone

If the season revealed one truth, it is that Tyrese Maxey has arrived. The 24-year-old guard enjoyed a breakout campaign, averaging 25.6 points and 6.2 assists. His relentless pace, creative scoring and improved decision-making earned him an All-Star berth and league-wide admiration. “Tyrese has proven he’s not just the future – he’s the now,” Coach Lee said after a standout February performance against Milwaukee.

A Season to Reflect

The 76ers finished with a disappointing 24–58 record, far from preseason projections. Fan frustration grew but calls for a full rebuild were tempered by the promising core and Embiid’s continued loyalty. Analysts noted that the Sixers’ record didn’t reflect their potential, especially given the extended absences of key players.

NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025: A Fresh Stage

Looking to put the past behind them, the 76ers will travel to the United Arab Emirates this October for the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025, where they will face the New York Knicks in two high-profile preseason games at the Etihad Arena on 2 and 4 October.

The event is part of the NBA’s growing international expansion and the fourth year that Abu Dhabi has hosted preseason matchups. For the 76ers, it represents a chance to reset in a new environment and rebuild chemistry heading into the 2025–26 campaign.

Taking On the Knicks

The Knicks will be coming off a strong playoff run, led by All-Stars Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. The matchups will give the Sixers a valuable early test – a preview of the battles they hope to face again in the Eastern Conference Playoffs.

With Embiid expected to be fully fit and George potentially back in action, the team aims to use these games to trial new rotations, refine strategy and reintroduce the full power of its big three.

An International Fan Experience with ES Sport

Fans travelling to Abu Dhabi will be treated to more than just basketball. The NBA Abu Dhabi Games include fan zones, meet-and-greet opportunities with current and former players, and youth engagement initiatives to promote the sport globally.

ES Sport is the official reseller for the event, and we are offering comprehensive ticket and hospitality packages that include:

Official game tickets (from CAT 7 to CAT 4)
One-night premium hotel stay with breakfast
Tailored service and on-site assistance

Whether you’re a lifelong Sixers supporter or a basketball fan seeking an unforgettable live experience, ES Sport provides the ideal way to experience the NBA’s Middle East showcase.

Looking Ahead: The Road to Redemption

As the 76ers prepare for a new chapter, the NBA Abu Dhabi Games serve as both a celebration and a reset. The franchise knows its window with Embiid and George will not remain open forever. The early glimpses of Charles Lee’s system showed promise, and the Abu Dhabi showcase provides a low-stakes but high-profile stage to build momentum.

Behind Maxey’s development and with a healthier core, the Sixers have reason to believe the 2025–26 season could be a return to contention. Much will depend on player fitness and the integration of new role players, likely added through the draft or free agency.

The 2024–25 season did not go as planned for the Philadelphia 76ers, but it offered clarity and growth. As they head to Abu Dhabi for a global curtain-raiser, the focus shifts from frustration to possibility. If they stay healthy and unite around their young star and veteran leaders, the Sixers could turn the page and write a new legacy, one that begins not in Philadelphia but in the heart of the UAE.