The Sixers media and fans are emphasizing Ben Simmons missed open dunk opportunity as the reason why the Sixers lost game 7.
However, there was a play that occurred before this moment that is a huge reason why he was too afraid to shoot down the stretch.
I pointed out a play early in the second half that to me, was the end of Ben Simmons on the Philadelphia 76ers and the end of our hopes to win game 7.
Time to break it all down.
Tobias Harris started the second half with a three to put the Sixers ahead 49-48. This was followed up by two made free throws by Joel Embiid. The lead was now 51-48.
Lets take a step back. The Sixers went on a 14-0 run in game 6 to start the second half. This was a huge reason why they were able to win down in Atlanta.
So back to game 7.
Dwight Howard’s reaction to the Ben Simmons offensive foul call 😂💀 #NBAPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/feYwz8AwqS
— ZachTheMan (@Blazing_Shadow_) June 21, 2021
This sequence was the climax. If this counts as a potential three point play, the Sixers dont look back. This also would have been a huge confidence booster for Ben Simmons.
Instead, its an offensive foul, Ben Simmons does not attempt a drive the rest of the game, and the Sixers lose at home.
I knew that play was the end of the Sixers chance to win this game.
The one time, the one moment, Ben actually was aggressive and saw the ball go into the hoop, its just rewarded as a foul.
For a player in a mental slump, that just makes things worse.
Please comment on Twitter and let me know your take on this sequence.
