Tyrese Maxey: NBA Rising Star, Philadelphia 76ers Guard, and Key Player in Modern Backcourt Play

When you think of a guard who can blow past defenders, hit tough shots in traffic, and take over games when it matters most, you’re thinking of Tyrese Maxey, a dynamic NBA guard known for his explosive scoring and relentless drive on the court. Also known as T-Max, he’s the kind of player who turns defensive breakdowns into fast-break highlights and makes opposing coaches rethink their game plans. He didn’t just show up and surprise everyone—he earned it. Drafted 21st overall in 2020 by the Philadelphia 76ers, Maxey quickly moved from bench contributor to starter, then to franchise cornerstone. His rise wasn’t luck. It was repetition, film study, and an uncanny ability to read defenses like a chess master.

Maxey’s game is built on three things: speed, smarts, and toughness. He doesn’t need a ton of space to get off a shot—he creates it. Whether it’s a pull-up three after a crossover, a float over two defenders in the paint, or a drive to the rim that ends in a foul, he’s always pushing the pace. He’s not the tallest guard, but he plays bigger. His ability to finish through contact earned him a reputation as one of the league’s most efficient scorers in the clutch. And he doesn’t just score—he sets up others. His assist numbers have climbed every season, proving he’s more than just a scorer; he’s a playmaker who understands spacing and timing.

He’s also a key part of what makes the Philadelphia 76ers, an NBA team rebuilding around young talent with high ceilings relevant again. With Joel Embiid as the anchor, Maxey is the engine that keeps the offense flowing. He’s the guy who can take over when the big man is double-teamed. He’s the spark plug when the team needs a lift. And when the playoffs roll around, he’s the player you want with the ball in his hands down the stretch. His chemistry with Embiid is one of the most reliable in the league—when Maxey draws defenders, Embiid gets open. When Embiid draws two, Maxey finds the open man.

What makes Maxey stand out isn’t just his stats—it’s his presence. He plays with a chip on his shoulder, a quiet confidence that doesn’t need to be shouted. He’s the type of player who gets better when the lights are brightest. And while he’s still young, he’s already shown he can carry a team through slumps, carry a playoff series with big scoring nights, and carry the expectations of a fanbase hungry for success.

Behind the scenes, he’s known for his work ethic. Early arrivals, late departures, endless shooting drills—he doesn’t wait for motivation. He creates it. That’s why he’s not just a rising star—he’s becoming a cornerstone. And as the NBA shifts toward faster, more versatile guards, Maxey is exactly what teams are chasing.

Below, you’ll find a collection of stories that capture his biggest games, his most critical moments, and how he’s shaping the future of the 76ers—and the league. From buzzer-beaters to breakout performances, these are the moments that define Tyrese Maxey’s rise.