PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The home advantage is back for the Philadelphia 76ers.
With increased capacity at the Wells Fargo Center, 11,000 fans made themselves heard on Sunday afternoon as the Sixers took Game 1 of their playoff series with the Washington Wizards.
Now, the Sixers have their sights set on a 2-0 series lead, with Game 2 set to tipoff on Wednesday night in South Philadelphia.
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Players such as as Seth Curry said the crowd helped make the difference in the game when crunch time arrived.
"That’s the kind of mentality you have to bring in the playoffs," said Curry.
"Everybody turns up a notch. The competitive spirit is obviously a lot different than the regular season, and it’s just fun having the fans in the crowd in the arena again."
While the Sixers and their fans were happy with the victory, Coach Doc Rivers said plenty of adjustments need to be made for Game 2.
The Sixers had their issues on defense against a Wizards' squad with a talented group of guards. Rivers is hoping the Sixers learned from their mistakes and will have an easier time on Wednesday night.
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"It was a list," Rivers said.
"Not matching up, running to your own men, buddy running is what we call it. The ball’s in front, but your man is next to you. You start buddy running with him instead of getting in front of the ball, and then communication."
One player who earned the praise of Rivers was Ben Simmons, who collected 15 rebounds and 15 assists in Game 1.
Simmons also received his share of criticism after scoring only six points, but Rivers wanted no part of dealing with Simmons' critics.
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"I have zero reaction," said Rivers said.
"If you guys don’t know the treasure you have by now, then shame on everyone because he’s been fantastic for us. He creates points every single night for us. When Ben was on the floor, we were really good."
There is a chance the capacity will continue to increase at the Center as the playoffs progress.
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If the Sixers are able to make a deep run, the home court advantage may become a huge factor.
George Hill came to the Sixers in a trade this season, and is excited to hear what a playoff crowd is like in Philadelphia.
"No one knows how big our fans matter until they’re not there," Hill said.
"This is one place that I always wanted to be in and see the fans be a part of. I got to do that the other night, even though it wasn’t packed all the way."