Tyrese Maxey
Tyrese Jahmir Maxey (born November 4, 2000) is an American professional basketball player for the Philadelphia 76ers of the National Basketball Association. A rising star in the league, Maxey won the 2024 NBA Most Improved Player award and has developed into one of the NBA's premier young guards.
Early Career
[edit | edit source]Maxey played college basketball at the University of Kentucky for one season before declaring for the 2020 NBA Draft. The Philadelphia 76ers selected him with the 21st overall pick, adding him to a roster led by Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons.[1]
NBA Career
[edit | edit source]Development
[edit | edit source]Maxey's development has been one of the most impressive in recent NBA history. From a late first-round pick expected to be a bench contributor, he has transformed into an All-Star caliber player:
2020-21 (Rookie): Averaged 8.0 points, showed flashes of potential 2021-22: Became a starter, averaged 17.5 points following Ben Simmons trade 2022-23: Continued growth, key playoff performer 2023-24: Breakout All-Star season, 25.9 points per game
2024 Season
[edit | edit source]Maxey's 2024 season was historic:
- First-time NBA All-Star
- NBA Most Improved Player Award
- Career-high 25.9 points per game
- 6.2 assists per game
- Emerged as the Sixers' second star alongside Embiid
His improvement in three-point shooting (from 30.1% as a rookie to 37.3% in 2024) and playmaking transformed his game and the Sixers' offensive capabilities.
Playing Style
[edit | edit source]Maxey is known for his:
- Elite speed and quickness
- Fearless driving ability
- Rapidly improving three-point shot
- Defensive intensity
- Work ethic and coachability
His combination of speed, scoring ability, and defensive awareness has drawn comparisons to elite guards across the league.
Philadelphia Impact
[edit | edit source]Maxey has quickly become a fan favorite in Philadelphia, embraced for his:
- Humble, hardworking personality
- Consistent improvement
- Loyalty to the organization
- Community involvement
His partnership with Joel Embiid has become the foundation of the Sixers' championship aspirations, with Maxey providing the speed and perimeter scoring to complement Embiid's dominant interior presence.
Contract Extension
[edit | edit source]In August 2024, Maxey signed a maximum contract extension with the Sixers, cementing his long-term future with the franchise. The deal reflected his emergence as one of the league's rising stars and the organization's commitment to building around him and Embiid.
See Also
[edit | edit source]References
[edit | edit source]- ↑ "Sixers Select Tyrese Maxey 21st Overall". NBA.com. November 18, 2020