The Philadelphia 76ers are a storied franchise with championships, iconic players, and a passionate fanbase. But behind the familiar moments are some surprising stories and lesser-known tidbits.
Let’s uncover the Sixers’ facts and secrets below.
- The Nationals? The 76ers weren’t always from Philly! They began life in 1946 as the Syracuse Nationals, winning an NBA championship in 1955.
- Why 76ers? A contest was held to rename the team after its 1963 move to Philadelphia. The winning entry honored the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
- The Wilt Factor Wilt Chamberlain was an unstoppable force for the Sixers. He scored an NBA record 100 points in a single game and holds numerous team records.
- The Doctor Was In Julius “Dr. J” Erving dazzled crowds with his gravity-defying dunks and became a legend. His style influenced how the modern game is played.
- Barkley the Bold Charles Barkley was a fierce competitor known for his rebounding and trash-talking skills. He was a fan favorite, even if he ruffled feathers.
- The Answer Arrives Allen Iverson, nicknamed “The Answer”, was a dynamic scorer and cultural icon. His style and attitude had a lasting impact on the NBA.
- A Record Low The Sixers had a historically bad season in 1972/73, with a dismal 9-73 record. It spurred rebuilding efforts and became a cautionary tale.
- Homecourt Variety Over the years, the Sixers have played home games in multiple arenas throughout Philadelphia, adding to their varied history.
- Trust the Process The phrase “Trust the Process” became a mantra during a rebuilding period in the 2010s. It symbolized patience and belief in a long-term plan.
- More Than a Team, a Movement The Sixers were the first major North American sports team to acquire an esports team, highlighting their forward-thinking approach.
- City of Brotherly Love, Fierce Rivals Like the Lakers and Celtics, the Sixers share an intense rivalry with the Boston Celtics, making for classic matchups with a long history.
- The Spectrum: A Legendary Arena The now-demolished Spectrum arena was the Sixers’ home for decades. It was known for its raucous atmosphere and passionate fans.
- A.I.’s Iconic Step-Over In the 2001 NBA Finals, Allen Iverson made history with his iconic step-over move against Tyronn Lue, cementing his legendary status.
- Lucky Number 76 The Sixers’ name isn’t just about a year! Their logo often incorporates the number 76, paying homage to their namesake.
- More Than Players: Moses Malone Moses Malone led the Sixers to a championship in 1983 and was an incredible rebounder and scorer, earning him multiple MVP titles.