For the second time in two weeks, “Big” Al Jefferson was just too much for Philadelphia to handle. His 29 points led the playoff-bound Charlotte Bobcats past the 76ers on Saturday night, 111-105.
Jefferson achieved a double-double with 29 points and 12 rebounds. It marked the sixth consecutive game, a franchise record, in which he scored 20 points while having 10 rebounds.
Playing without Kemba Walker, the Bobcats could not create much separation from the Sixers like they did in their 30 point victory in Philadelphia. They, like Philadelphia, were playing on back-to-back nights.
Philadelphia was able to come back and get the game close and even take the lead before going into the half. A big third quarter got the Bobcats ahead, though, as they outscored the Sixers 31-19 in the period.
They did a better job than last week, but the Sixers still allowed the Bobcats to shoot with ease from the floor. The Bobcats, led by Jefferson’s 13 field goals, shot 54% from the field. Luke Ridnour did a nice job filling in for Walker as he contributed 12 points in the starting lineup. He also did a great job protecting the ball, as the point guard only committed one turnover.
Michael Carter-Williams led the Sixers with 23 points. He had an overall solid game, adding 7 rebounds and 8 assists. He was one of six 76ers to reach double figures in scoring.
The loss for the Sixers means they will fail to reach 20 for the first time since 1995-96. That season of course allowed them to secure the first overall pick to draft Allen Iverson in the summer of 1996.
