Tyrese Maxey drew high praise from newly‑signed guard Anfernee Simons on July 8, 2026, as the veteran highlighted Maxey’s speed, shooting range and game‑changing ability during the Sixers’ first practice with the new free‑agent acquisition.
What did Simons say about Tyrese Maxey?
Simons, the 8‑year NBA veteran, told reporters that Maxey’s “speed is unlike others” and that his “ability to shoot the ball… to get downhill” makes him a special talent. He added that Maxey can “handle the ball and be just as explosive—to be even more explosive as you.” The comments came during a media day in Philadelphia, where Simons outlined how he expects to mesh with the team’s young backcourt.
How does Maxey fit into the Sixers’ new roster?
The Sixers’ free‑agency move brings Simons, a 14.9‑point scorer who shoots 38.1% from three‑point range, into a backcourt already anchored by Maxey. Simons believes Maxey’s “ability to hit big shots and change the game completely” will free up space for him to operate, potentially allowing both guards to share minutes without sacrificing offensive flow. Maxey, now a franchise pillar, will likely see his playmaking duties evolve as Simons adds another scoring option.
Why Simons’ endorsement matters for Maxey’s future?
Having a veteran like Simons publicly endorse Maxey’s skill set adds credibility to the guard’s growing reputation. The Sixers are in a win‑now window with Joel Embiid and a promising rookie, VJ Edgecombe, who averaged 16.0 points and 4.2 assists this season. Simons’ remarks suggest the team expects Maxey to remain a primary offensive engine while also benefitting from Simons’ scoring bursts.
What’s next for the Sixers after the free‑agency splash?
Philadelphia will integrate Simons into its rotation over the next few weeks, testing lineups that pair him with Maxey and Edgecombe. The coaching staff aims to leverage Maxey’s “downhill” speed and clutch shooting to create open looks for Simons, who thrives on quick ball‑movement. As the preseason unfolds, Maxey’s role may expand beyond scoring to include more play‑calling duties, especially if Simons draws defensive attention.
How might this affect the Sixers’ playoff outlook?
If Maxey continues to deliver the “big shots” Simons praised, the Sixers could see a smoother transition to a more dynamic offense. The guard’s ability to change the game at any moment, combined with Simons’ high‑volume scoring, could push Philadelphia into a top‑seed contention in the Eastern Conference. The upcoming schedule will test whether the chemistry Simons described translates into consistent wins.
Key takeaway: Simons’ July 8 comments underscore Tyrese Maxey’s central role in Philadelphia’s revamped backcourt, hinting at a season where both guards could thrive side‑by‑side.