The rivalry between the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers has stood the test of time. For decades, these two franchises have met in countless high-stakes battles, delivering some of the most memorable moments in NBA history. The Knicks’ gritty defence often clashes with the Sixers’ explosive offense, creating an electrifying spectacle.
In this article, we’ll dive into the history of the rivalry, examine their contrasting playing styles, highlight key players, review recent matchups, and preview upcoming games.
A Long History of Rivalry
The Knicks vs 76ers have been rivals since the early years of the NBA. Both teams have consistently been among the strongest in the Eastern Conference.
The Knicks’ Legacy
The Knicks are defined by their blue-collar mentality and defensive grit. In the 1970s, they won two NBA titles, in 1970 and 1973, led by Willis Reed, Walt Frazier, and Bill Bradley. Their emphasis on teamwork, hustle, and defence made them one of the league’s most respected franchises.
The 76ers’ Star Power
On the other side, the Sixers have always been known for star players. Legends such as Wilt Chamberlain, Julius Erving (Dr. J), and Allen Iverson cemented their legacy. Their last championship came in 1983 with Moses Malone and Charles Barkley anchoring the squad. While they haven’t lifted the trophy since, the Sixers remain one of the NBA’s most decorated teams.
Over the years, playoff clashes and high-intensity regular-season games have kept this rivalry alive. Fans eagerly await these encounters, knowing each game could produce something unforgettable.
Opposite Styles: Defence vs. Offense
One reason this rivalry is so thrilling lies in the stark difference in playing styles.
The Knicks’ Defence-First Philosophy
Under head coach Tom Thibodeau, the Knicks built a defence-first identity. His system emphasizes relentless ball pressure, slowing fast breaks, and forcing opponents into mistakes. The Knicks thrive by grinding games down, dictating pace, and frustrating scorers.
The 76ers’ Offensive Power
In contrast, the Sixers lean heavily on Joel Embiid, one of the most dominant big men in basketball. He can score from the post, the perimeter, and the free-throw line, making him nearly unstoppable. Surrounding him are offensive weapons like Tyrese Maxey, a lightning-quick guard, and James Harden, who brings vision and clutch scoring (if he remains with the team). Together, they aim to outpace opponents and break down defensive schemes.
The clash of New York’s discipline and Philadelphia’s firepower makes every meeting unpredictable.
Key Players to Watch
These matchups showcase stars who can tip the scales for their teams.
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Julius Randle (Knicks): A versatile forward who scores inside and out. His rebounding and playmaking also fuel the Knicks.
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Jalen Brunson (Knicks): A steady point guard with high IQ. He orchestrates the offense and thrives under pressure.
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Joel Embiid (76ers): The Sixers’ MVP candidate dominates on both ends of the floor. Stopping him is always a challenge.
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Tyrese Maxey (76ers): A rising star known for his speed and aggression. He provides the Sixers with a crucial spark.
Recent Matchups: Knicks on Top
The Knicks have dominated recent meetings with the Sixers, winning their last five games:
| Date | Venue | Final Score | Winner | Notable Performer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 1, 2025 | Madison Square Garden | Knicks 105–91 | Knicks | OG Anunoby (27 pts) |
| Feb 26, 2025 | Madison Square Garden | Knicks 110–105 | Knicks | Jalen Brunson (28) |
| Jan 15, 2025 | Wells Fargo Center | Knicks 125–119 | Knicks | Jalen Brunson (30) |
| Nov 12, 2024 | Madison Square Garden | Knicks 111–99 | Knicks | Julius Randle (24) |
| May 2, 2024 | Wells Fargo Center | Knicks 118–115 | Knicks | Julius Randle (22) |
The Knicks’ mix of tough defense and balanced scoring has proven too much for the Sixers in these contests.
Upcoming Games: Global Spotlight
The rivalry will soon go international. The Knicks and Sixers will meet twice during the 2025 NBA preseason in Abu Dhabi. Both games will be played at Etihad Arena on October 2 and October 4.
These will be the first matchups between the two teams outside North America. For fans worldwide, it’s a rare chance to witness the rivalry on a global stage. Even though preseason games carry less weight, both teams will treat them as important tune-ups for the regular season.
Where to Watch
Fans can catch the upcoming preseason games on NBA TV and through NBA League Pass. Local broadcasters may also carry the games, so viewers should check listings in their region.
Conclusion: A Rivalry That Endures
The rivalry between the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers remains one of the NBA’s most exciting storylines. Their clashes bring together history, star power, and two opposite basketball philosophies—defence versus offense.
As the Knicks continue to rise under Thibodeau and the Sixers lean on Embiid’s dominance, their matchups will stay must-watch events. Every game adds a new chapter to a rivalry that has already given fans decades of unforgettable moments.
Looking ahead, one thing is certain: whenever the Knicks and 76ers meet, basketball fans can expect passion, intensity, and drama. This is a rivalry that will never fade.
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