8. First series win in ‘The Process’ Era
Not long ago, Sam Hinkie traded Jrue Holiday for Nerlens Noel, beginning a multi-year rebuild that would polarize both Sixers fans and NBA pundits. Some criticized the blatant attempts to lose, while others praised Hinkie’s longest-view-in-the-room approach. It’s fair to say Hinkie had a point.
After Hinkie’s dismissal, Bryan Colangelo took over the general manager position. While Colangelo’s tenure ended in flames, his lack of attention to the margins and questionable free agent signings couldn’t undo the core pieces of what Hinkie set in motion.
Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons emerged as stars in 2017-18, leading the Sixers to 52 wins, despite their relative inexperience. After ending the season on a 16-game win streak, Philadelphia entered the postseason as the three-seed, facing a scrappy Miami Heat team.
Some expected the Sixers’ inexperience to backfire, but it didn’t. The Sixers were riding a wave of momentum, carried by a rabid fanbase, a catchy #PhilaUnite slogan and some talented young pieces. The Heat were done in five.
It was a monumental series for various reasons. It was Brett Brown’s first postseason as Sixers head coach, as well as the first series victory for Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons. It also coincided with Meek Mill’s release from prison, as the famous rapper sat courtside just hours after being freed. There was palpable energy around the franchise and the city. It was an incredible environment.
After suffering through ‘The Process’ years, it was among the most rewarding sensations in recent memory for Sixers fans. Embiid and Simmons proved themselves on the big stage, while fan favorites — such as Robert Covington, Dario Saric and T.J. McConnell — all made an impact.