The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the New York Knicks 106-100 on Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden to open the 2026-27 NBA season. The game marked the Philadelphia debuts of LeBron James and Jaylen Brown, who helped the 76ers overcome a Knicks team that was celebrating its recent NBA championship.
The matchup followed a pre-game ceremony where the Knicks raised a championship banner and received rings for their previous season’s title. During the ceremony, Knicks guard Jalen Brunson addressed the crowd, stating his desire to replicate the city's summer celebrations. The victory for Philadelphia came after they trailed during the game, according to the Associated Press.
Tyrese Maxey led the 76ers with 28 points, while Jaylen Brown contributed 19 points, eight rebounds, and six assists in his first game since joining from the Boston Celtics. LeBron James, beginning an NBA-record 24th season, recorded 14 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. For the Knicks, Brunson scored 21 points but shot 6-for-19 from the field. Karl-Anthony Towns added 19 points and 12 rebounds.
The outcome establishes an early standing in the Eastern Conference for both teams. For Philadelphia, the performance of their new additions alongside returning starters suggests a change in their competitive rotation following the acquisition of Brown from a division rival. For New York, the loss on "ring night" indicates a transition from the celebrations of the previous championship to the active 82-game regular season schedule.
The 76ers will continue their season at home against Cleveland on Thursday, October 22. The Knicks are scheduled to travel to face the Boston Celtics on Friday, October 23. These early games will determine the initial seeding and momentum for both franchises as they navigate the first week of the 2026-27 professional basketball calendar.