PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The Philadelphia 76ers know brighter days are ahead after a surprising run to Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.
In their first season under new ownership, the Sixers posted their first winning record in eight seasons and won a playoff series for the first time since 2003.
The Sixers knocked off the top-seeded Chicago Bulls in the opening round and stretched the Boston Celtics to seven games in the semifinals.
The Sixers believe they can win with Evan Turner and Jrue Holiday running the backcourt. The potential returns for Andre Iguodala and Elton Brand are murkier. Iguodala has long been the subject of trade speculation and the team could look to amnesty Brand.
Coach Doug Collins called the Sixers overachievers on Sunday. Collins says the Sixers now need to become champions.
