Tyrese Maxey reacts to controversial missed call late in Rockets thriller

The City of Brotherly Love is already on edge amid the Philadelphia Eagles’ search for a new offensive coordinator, but fans might riot if Philadelphia 76ers lost because of Referee error.

With the score tied at 115 late in the fourth quarter of Thursday’s home game against the Houston Rockets, Tyrese McKay with the aim of sending the home audience off happy and fast. The star point guard drove to the basket and attempted a layup as Kevin Durant and Amen Thompson moved to block him. They were a little late, connecting with the ball after it had already hit the backboard. However, the referee did not whistle for the goalkeeper’s foul.

The hard-earned victory was denied, that is, postponed, and the competition was extended into overtime. Fortunately, the 76ers kept their composure and finished the job a few minutes later, outscoring Houston 128-122. Although the brutal mistake eventually became irrelevant, the media still is seeking clarity. The reporters questioned Maxey about the controversial no-call.

“No,” All-Star Game starter he said when asked if he had been given an explanation, per Sixers Wire’s Kai Carlin. “I was just surprised. I kind of just put it on the board, but it happens, man. We’re all human.”

#Sikers Star Tyrese McKay gives his perspective on the no-call on goaltending at the end of the game: pic.twitter.com/CaLozseToF

— Kay Carlin (@Ki_Carlin) January 23, 2026

Tirese McKay handled the obvious blunder like a pro, which must have been easier to do after his team pulled out the win. The 25-year-old added that in his career he scored 36 points on 53.6 percent shooting with 10 assists and three steals. He went on a streak, scoring 17 points in the fourth quarter and overtime. Maxi would love to decide the game in regulation, but overcoming additional adversity should theoretically benefit the team.

Philadelphia (24-19) is getting some much-needed momentum after losing three of its past four contests. While Joel Embiid, Paul George, VJ Edgecombe, Kelly Oubre Jr. and Quentin Grimes important members of this team, Tirese Mackey is now the center of the franchise. He’ll look to stay in top form as the 76ers look to end their 2-3 home streak with a win against the New York Knicks (26-18) this Saturday afternoon.