Jordan Poole delivered a stellar second-half performance to lead the
New Orleans Pelicans past the
Philadelphia 76ers with a
126-111 victory on Saturday night. The game, played in front of an energetic home crowd, saw the Pelicans turn a tight contest into a convincing win on the back of Poole's hot shooting and a relentless team effort after halftime.
Poole, who finished with 23 points, was especially lethal from beyond the arc, draining five 3-pointers and sparking a decisive run in the final stages. According to ESPN NBA, the Pelicans outscored the Sixers 60-35 over the last 21 minutes, transforming a close game into a runaway.
- Jordan Poole: 23 points, 5 three-pointers
- Pelicans' second-half surge: Outscored 76ers 60-35 in final 21 minutes
- Final score: Pelicans 126, 76ers 111
The matchup began evenly, with both teams trading baskets and neither able to establish clear control through the first half. But as the game entered its latter stages, the Pelicans found another gear. Poole's ability to create his own shot and stretch the floor proved pivotal, opening up opportunities for teammates and energizing the crowd every time he connected from deep.
The New Orleans offense flowed efficiently, with players moving without the ball and capitalizing on Philadelphia's defensive lapses. The Pelicans' superior ball movement and defensive pressure contributed to their overwhelming second-half run. The 76ers, meanwhile, struggled to keep pace offensively and were unable to mount a comeback once the momentum shifted.
While Poole's five three-pointers stood out, the Pelicans' victory was a team effort, as contributions from multiple players allowed them to pull away. The win not only boosts New Orleans' position in the standings but also sends a message about their ability to close out games against quality opponents.
The Sixers will look to regroup after being outscored by 25 in the game's final 21 minutes, aiming to address defensive breakdowns and regain their offensive rhythm moving forward.
