76ers Advance Past 1st Round For 1st Time Since 2003

Philadelphia last played in the Eastern Conference Semifinals in 2003. The 76ers knocked out the Hornets in round one, before losing to the Pistons in round two. Nine years ago was the last time Philadelphia advanced to round two of the NBA Playoffs. Thursday the 8th seed Sixers defeated the 1st seed Bulls minus Rose and Noah, to take the series 4-2. For the 2nd time in the series at home, Philadelphia came back from a double digit fourth quarter deficit vs. Chicago. Down by one, Andre Iguodala rebounded a Bulls missed free throw, dribbled the length of the court with five seconds remaining in the game. Chicago was that close to returning home for a Game 7. However Dre was fouled, many fans in the building was hoping for at least 1/2 from the line and overtime. The 76ers lone all star shot a career low free throw percentage this season. He obviously saved the best for last, making both free throws giving the 76ers a 1 point lead. Chicago had no timeouts remaining as C.J Watson missed a half court prayer. Defeating the Bulls meant Philadelphia became only the 4th NBA team as an 8th seed to knock off an one seed. Along with Golden State in 2006, New York in 1999 and Denver in 1994. Sixers will face the Celtics in round two.