22
Oct
5 min read
Philadelphia 76ers NBA Profile: Five things you need to know
Storied Franchise Reborn Through "The Process"
- Oldest NBA franchise still in original city
- Three-time NBA champions (1955, 1967, 1983)
- Home to legends Wilt Chamberlain, Julius Erving, and Allen Iverson
The Philadelphia 76ers are one of the NBA's most historic franchises, with roots tracing back to 1946 as the Syracuse Nationals. Now led by MVP Joel Embiid, the team has re-emerged as an Eastern Conference power after years of rebuilding.
Key Details
- Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Year Founded: 1946 (as Syracuse Nationals), 1963 (in Philadelphia)
- Home Arena: Wells Fargo Center
- Championships: 3 (1955, 1967, 1983)
- Major Rivals: Boston Celtics and New York Knicks
Australians who have played for the Philadelphia 76ers
Ben Simmons: Born in Melbourne, Victoria, Simmons was selected by the 76ers as the first overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft. He played for Philadelphia from 2016 to 2022, earning multiple All-Star selections and the 2018 NBA Rookie of the Year award. Simmons was known for his versatility, playmaking, and defensive skills.
Matisse Thybulle: Although born in Scottsdale, Arizona, Thybulle holds dual American-Australian citizenship and spent part of his childhood in Sydney. Drafted by the 76ers in 2019, he played with the team until 2023. Thybulle is recognised for his exceptional defensive abilities, earning NBA All-Defensive Second Team honours in 2021 and 2022.
Mark Bradtke: A native of Noarlunga, South Australia, Bradtke had a brief stint with the 76ers during the 1996–1997 NBA season. He appeared in 36 games, averaging 1.6 points and 1.9 rebounds per game. Bradtke was primarily known for his successful career in Australia's National Basketball League (NBL).
Jonah Bolden: Born in Melbourne, Victoria, Bolden was drafted by the 76ers in the second round of the 2017 NBA Draft. He played for Philadelphia from 2018 to 2020, participating in 48 games and averaging 4.4 points and 3.5 rebounds per game. Bolden was known for his athleticism and defensive potential.
Identity
The 76ers' identity is deeply tied to Philadelphia's revolutionary history, reflected in their name, logo, and "City of Brotherly Love" ethos. On the court, the team has historically been known for star power and innovative play.
Team Philosophy: The 76ers embrace a mix of analytics-driven decision making and traditional basketball values. Under GM Daryl Morey, they've focused on efficient offense built around Embiid's dominant inside presence.
Playing Style: With Embiid as the cornerstone, the 76ers employ an inside-out offense that generates open looks for shooters. Defensively, they leverage Embiid's rim protection while emphasising perimeter pressure. But Joel Embiid's load management continues to spark debate, balancing his MVP-level performance with frequent rest to avoid injuries and ensure long-term health, especially as the 76ers aim for deep playoff runs. Fans and analysts are divided, with some supporting the strategy for sustainability, while others argue it disrupts the rhythm and consistency needed for team success.
Club Culture: The 76ers have cultivated a scrappy, underdog mentality reflective of Philadelphia itself. "Trust The Process" became a rallying cry during their rebuild, symbolising patience and long-term vision.
Greatest Eras
1960s: Led by Wilt Chamberlain, won 1967 title
1980s: Dr. J and Moses Malone brought 1983 championship
Early 2000s: Allen Iverson era, 2001 NBA Finals appearance
Current: Joel Embiid-led resurgence
Famous Teams
1966-67: 68-13 record, considered one of the greatest teams ever
1982-83: Moses Malone's "Fo', Fo', Fo'" championship run
2000-01: Eastern Conference champions led by MVP Allen Iverson
Key Figures
Wilt Chamberlain: Dominated the 1960s, set numerous records
Julius Erving: Revolutionised the game with high-flying style
Allen Iverson: Cultural icon who carried the team in the early 2000s
Joel Embiid: Current franchise player and 2023 NBA MVP
Five Fast Facts
- The team's name references the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
- Wilt Chamberlain's 100-point game in 1962 remains an NBA record.
- The 76ers posted the worst record in NBA history (9-73) in 1972-73.
- Allen Iverson's "practice" rant is one of the most famous press conferences ever.
- "The Process" rebuild (2013-2016) was one of the most controversial strategies in NBA history.
Club Timeline
1946: Franchise founded as Syracuse Nationals
1963: Team moves to Philadelphia, renamed 76ers
1967: Win NBA championship led by Wilt Chamberlain
1983: Capture third title with Moses Malone and Julius Erving
2001: Allen Iverson leads team to NBA Finals
2013: Begin "The Process" rebuild under Sam Hinkie
2023: Joel Embiid wins NBA MVP award
Key Club Statistics
All-Time Record: 2,992-2,741 (.522 winning percentage)
Championship History: 3 titles (1955, 1967, 1983)
Hall of Fame Players: 17
Retired Numbers: 9
Records: Wilt Chamberlain's 100-point game (1962)
Today
The 76ers have emerged from "The Process" rebuild as perennial contenders in the Eastern Conference. Joel Embiid has developed into one of the NBA's most dominant players, winning MVP in 2023. While the team has yet to break through to the NBA Finals, they remain a threat with a core of Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and new addition Paul George.
The departure of James Harden and arrival of George marks a new chapter for the franchise. Under head coach Nick Nurse, the 76ers aim to maximise Embiid's prime years and push for that elusive fourth championship. With a mix of star power and emerging young talent, Philadelphia looks to build on its storied legacy in the seasons ahead.
