Joel Embiid scored 33 points to lead the Philadelphia 76ers to a 113-97 victory over the Boston Celtics in Game 5 [1].

The win prevents the 76ers from being eliminated from the playoff series, extending their postseason run in a critical series against Boston.

The game took place April 28, 2026, at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia [1]. Embiid finished the night with 33 points and eight assists [1]. His performance marked a significant return to form, as his previous playoff game with more than 30 points occurred on May 2, 2024 [2].

Philadelphia secured the win through a dominant closing effort. The 76ers outscored the Celtics 28-11 during a decisive fourth-quarter run [2]. This surge allowed Philadelphia to maintain a comfortable lead and secure the 113-97 final score [1].

The victory shifts the momentum of the series. By avoiding elimination, the 76ers have forced the series to continue, placing further pressure on the Celtics to close out the matchup. The team relied heavily on Embiid's versatility as a scorer and playmaker to dismantle the Boston defense.

“The win kept the 76ers’ season alive by avoiding elimination in the playoff series.”

This victory represents a pivotal shift in the series by validating Joel Embiid's ability to perform under elimination pressure. By recording his first 30-plus point playoff game since May 2024, Embiid has provided the 76ers with the offensive reliability needed to compete with Boston. The 28-11 fourth-quarter run suggests a significant defensive breakdown for the Celtics and a surge in confidence for Philadelphia.