Starting a couple years ago, the 76ers started developing new slogans in hopes of raising excitement among fans. While last season it was, “Show ya luv,” this year it has been, “Passionate, Intense, and Proud.” Although both of these slogans spark energy in Philadelphia, the most appropriate slogan to fit them was developed several years ago.

The slogan “Run with us” was made specifically to show off the Sixer’s youth and speed. This motto has fit right in as the Sixers have gone back to their old winning ways. Unfortunately, until this season, the Sixers have not made it past the first round of the playoffs since 2003. Every year it’s been close to the same story: sneak into the playoffs, steal a game or two and then pack up and go home.

Although the young team went into the 2012 playoffs as an eight seed, expectations were much higher. For more than half the season, the Sixers were atop their division and playing as a force to be reckoned with. Although the Sixers were able to win big against weak adversaries, when the lights came on against the league’s toughest teams, their youth and inexperience was exposed. The team had an inability to close out games. In other words, they did not have anyone that could step up at crucial points in the game. “They were so frustrating to watch because they were so close to becoming a great team but they were missing something,” said junior Eric Driscoll.

Although going through a deep slump late in the regular season, it appears that the 76ers have found their groove at the perfect time. In the first round of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals, former MVP, Derrick Rose suffered an ACL tear.

This was upsetting for Chicago; however, Rose was also gone for 27 games during the regular season and the Bulls still maintained the 1 seed over the heavy favorite, Miami Heat. The Sixers then went on to surprisingly pull off a huge upset by winning the series in six games. “When Rose got hurt in game one, I knew it was over. Don’t doubt the Sixers. They can play with anyone,” said junior Austin Stephens.
 
It was not just the fact that the Sixers snuck by Chicago, it was the way they did it. In game two, the Sixers exploded in the third quarter to end up winning the game by 17.
Now, the Sixers have turned to the next chapter in facing the old and experienced Boston Celtics.

The emergence of Evan Turner and Lavoy Allen, Thaddeus Young’s energy and athleticism, Jrue Holliday controlling the game, Lou William’s spark, along with Andre Iguodala and Elton Brand providing the leadership, have all contributed as significant factors. As Boston holds a 3-2 lead in the series, it will be interesting to see what happens as the series heads back to Philly.