Bold takeaway: The Hawks narrowly outlast the 76ers 120-117 thanks to a surge from Dyson Daniels and a double-double from Onyeka Okongwu, keeping Atlanta on a winning run and stoking fresh questions about Philadelphia’s late-game execution.
Dyson Daniels delivered a standout performance with 27 points and 10 rebounds, while Onyeka Okongwu contributed 20 points and 15 boards as the Atlanta Hawks survived a tight clash against the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday night. Daniels shot efficiently, going 13-for-19 from the floor, and the Hawks held off Philadelphia to secure their 15th win of the season.
Vojtech (Vrejici) added 19 points for Atlanta, and Zaccharie Risacher chipped in 15, rounding out a balanced offensive night for the Hawks. On the 76ers’ side, Paul George led the charge with 35 points, VJ Edgecombe added 26, and Joel Embiid finished with a 22-point, 14-rebound double-double. Philadelphia led only once in the game, at 47-46 in the second quarter, before Atlanta answered and built a lead that they clung to late.
Edgecombe’s 17 points in the third quarter were pivotal for Philadelphia, especially as George and Embiid rested on the sidelines for stretches. Tyrese Maxey was sidelined for the second consecutive game due to illness, leaving the 76ers short-handed at the guard position.
With the game still in doubt in the final minute, Daniels scored to put the Hawks ahead 118-114 with just over a minute to go. Quentin Grimes answered with a 3-pointer, but Embiid’s crucial defensive rebound kept Philadelphia in the hunt. A series of long-range attempts by the Sixers fell short, sealing a narrow victory for Atlanta.
Up next
- Hawks at Charlotte on Thursday night.
- 76ers at New York on Friday night.
Source: AP NBA report, December 15, 2025
