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On Thursday, Philadelphia 76ers star guard Tyrese Maxey was named this year's NBA Sportsmanship Award winner. Maxey's victory marked his second of the awards season, earning him a shoutout from his superstar teammate Joel Embiid.
Maxey secured his first Joe Dumars Trophy win weeks after being named the league's Most Improved Player, designating an impressive 2023-24 campaign for the 23-year-old. Per NBA.com, he is only the second Sixer to receive the award, handed out annually since the 1995-96 season, joining ex-Philly guard Eric Snow (1999-00).
Maxey was one of 30 players nominated for the honor by their respective teams. Select NBA executives then narrowed the candidate list to six players, one from each of the league's divisions, with active players voting on the winner.
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The first-time All-Star edged out Miami Heat veteran big man Kevin Love, who finished as the runner-up, receiving 2,545 points to Love's 2,313. Meanwhile, Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen placed third with 2,299 points.
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Upon the announcement of Maxey's latest award, Embiid took note, sharing the league's graphic to his Instagram story.
Embiid didn't provide any additional commentary. Nonetheless, the 2023 MVP seemingly appreciated his teammate's effort to maintain a positive mindset throughout the season.
Tyrese Maxey's parents surprise him with NBA Sportsmanship Award presentation
As for the presentation of his Sportsmanship Award, Tyrese Maxey's parents surprised him with a brief at-home trophy ceremony.
Upon Maxey walking through the door, they congratulated him on his accomplishment before handing him the Joe Dumars Trophy. The Sixers star appeared caught off guard, delivering an on-the-spot acceptance speech.
Maxey highlighted the importance of players respecting their competitors, citing his parent's influence on his values.
"It does mean a lot. Sportsmanship means a lot to me," Maxey said. "I go out there and I play extremely hard, but I still respect all my teammates and all my competitors. You've always gotta show respect to them.
"... [My parents] taught me a lot, too. Taught me how to play the game that I love with a lot of passion. But, at the end of the day, win, lose, or draw, you've got to respect your competitors and the guys that you’re playing against.”
Maxey is only coming off his fourth season. However, he is already one of the NBA's premier rising stars, averaging a career-best 25.9 points per game over 70 appearances this season. Between his electric scoring ability and likable personality, he should continue establishing himself as a league-wide fan favorite.
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