76ers Donating 2,000 Tickets for Game 6 vs. Knicks to Local First Responders, More

The Philadelphia 76ers' ownership group purchased more than 2,000 tickets for Thursday's Game 6 against the New York Knicks that will be distributed to first responders, health care professionals, community groups and other local organizations.

Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin, who was once a stakeholder in the franchise, is working with Sixers ownership as well. He said on X that "we absolutely CANNOT let Knicks fans take over our arena again!!!"

Among the talking points from Philly's 97-92 Game 4 loss was how many Knicks fans had purchased a ticket and claimed a seat inside Wells Fargo Center.

In general, this isn't an uncommon sight when a popular team is playing on the road. Franchises with huge fanbases typically receive a warm welcome in what's supposed to be hostile territory.

But this is the NBA playoffs and Philadelphia prides itself on being a passionate sports city. With all due respect to him, Knicks star Jalen Brunson shouldn't be getting MVP chants in the City of Brotherly Love.

Following Game 4, Sixers star Joel Embiid told reporters the number of Knicks fans in the building for the event was "disappointing" and "kind of pisses me off."

This probably wouldn't have been a big deal if Philly came out on top, but it was another source of frustration to draw from such a close defeat.

The ownership's giveaway is certainly one way to ensure there's a more partisan crowd for a must-win elimination game Thursday.