76ers' Kelly Oubre Reflects on First Game Back vs Hornets

The veteran forward had a brutally honest take on his performance in his return from injury.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 6:07pm

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Philadelphia 76ers forward Kelly Oubre made his return to the court after an eight-game absence due to a sprained elbow. While Oubre threw down a highlight-reel dunk that went viral, he admitted his overall performance in the 118-114 win over the Charlotte Hornets was "ehh." Oubre played nearly 30 minutes off the bench, scoring 9 points on 3-of-5 shooting with 5 rebounds and 1 steal.

Why it matters

Oubre's return is a key boost for the Sixers as they make a push for the playoffs. The veteran forward has been a valuable contributor this season, averaging 14.5 points per game. His honest self-assessment shows his high standards and desire to perform at his best as the Sixers look to solidify their position in the Eastern Conference standings.

The details

In his first game back, Oubre made an impact with a poster dunk that went viral on social media. However, he acknowledged that his overall performance was not up to his standards, shooting 3-of-5 from the field and turning the ball over once. Oubre played 29 minutes off the bench, scoring 9 points and grabbing 5 rebounds.

  • Kelly Oubre returned to action on March 28, 2026 against the Charlotte Hornets.
  • Oubre had been sidelined for 8 games due to a sprained elbow injury.

The players

Kelly Oubre

A 30-year-old veteran forward for the Philadelphia 76ers who has been a key contributor this season, averaging 14.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game.

Tyrese Maxey

The Sixers' starting guard who played 43 minutes in the win over the Hornets, scoring 26 points with 8 assists and 7 rebounds.

Joel Embiid

The Sixers' star center who had 29 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 blocks in the victory.

Paul George

The veteran forward who added 26 points, 13 rebounds, 4 steals, and 1 block to help the Sixers improve to 41-33 on the season.

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What they’re saying

“Road Kill. 🫎 First game back was ehh from me, but we got the Dub & my bruddas showed out, see y'all in Miami. God$peed $Till ♾️ #Shhh”

— Kelly Oubre, Sixers Forward

What’s next

The Sixers will look to build on their win over the Hornets as they head to Miami to take on the Heat on March 30th.

The takeaway

Oubre's honest self-assessment after his return game shows his high standards and desire to contribute at a high level as the Sixers make a playoff push. His highlight-reel dunk may have gone viral, but Oubre knows there is room for improvement as he works his way back from injury.