Despite the competition and rivalries, sports remain great unifiers. Whenever there is a tragedy or an accident for a player, the entire sporting world almost assuredly always comes together. Last year, who does not remember the terrible fate of Damar Hamlin and the way the sports world collectively responded? So, it wasn’t a surprise to see the sporting sphere come together in support of Kelly Oubre Jr.

The solid rotational player was a popular figure in most destinations. As a result, well-wishes kept pouring in from every corner of the NBA. In a media press conference, Warriors’ head coach Steve Kerr took the time to send a heartfelt message to his former player.

Steve Kerr shows sportsman spirit with Kelly Oubre Jr.

While Oubre was a part of the worst year in the Steve Kerr-led Golden State Warriors era, he was a popular camper, nonetheless. Even though he had a slow start to his season, he became a valuable commodity.

However, the salary cap led to the two sides eventually parting ways. Since then, Oubre has been to a few more destinations. But, in the short few days of this season, it felt like Kelly had found a home with the Philadelphia 76ers.

Enjoying a career year with the team, Oubre was in the form of his life. But, tragedy struck the 27-year-old. In a motor accident, a vehicle hit the forward while walking like a regular pedestrian. With internal injuries and broken ribs, #9 was taken to a hospital with a regiment of 76ers front-office executives immediately coming in.

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Since then, he’s in a stable condition. Now recuperating at home, he will remain in contact with the 76ers’ medical team on his road to recovery. While there is hope that he will return at some point during the season, the entire NBA’s thoughts and prayers are with Oubre.

Speaking in a similar light, the usually well-versed Kerr had a powerful message. “It was shocking news to hear. And I’m so glad to hear he’s okay. When I first heard the news, it sounded like it could have been really dire. So, more than anything, just happy to hear Kelly’s okay. Everyone here, in our locker room, was talking about it last night. We all send our love to Kelly. And wish him a quick recovery.” 

While one former Sixth Man of the Year was among the first to respond, the immediate question for Philly became different. With Kelly becoming invaluable as a bench piece and building a 6MOY case for himself, how would the team respond without him?

Philly without Kelly

As it turns out, emphatic was the 76ers’ choice of response. Due to the missing minutes and production of their bench stalwart, the team’s stars had to take on a bigger load. Thankfully, both reigning MVP Joel Embiid and especially Tyrese Maxey were up for the challenge.

Even though Embiid had 37 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists, it was Maxey’s show all-around. With a 50-piece to solidify Philadelphia’s lead atop the East, Maxey was sensational all game round. Whether it was a 25-point first half or an incandescent performance in the clutch, Tyrese was at his spectacular best.

While the first game had positive showings, can the 76ers keep this up?

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