76ers' Tyrese Maxey Earns Massive Praise from Doug Collins

Former 76ers coach calls Maxey his "favorite player in the NBA"

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Tyrese Maxey has emerged as a legitimate superstar for the Philadelphia 76ers, taking on a heavy workload and remaining productive despite the team's injury woes. Former 76ers guard and head coach Doug Collins showered Maxey with high praise, calling him his "favorite player in the NBA" and highlighting the young star's personality, performance, and joy for the game.

Why it matters

Maxey's rise to stardom comes at a crucial time for the 76ers, who are stuck in a difficult position with uncertainty surrounding the futures of Joel Embiid and Paul George. The team can now look to build around Maxey and his young backcourt partner VJ Edgecombe as they navigate this transitional period.

The details

Maxey has stepped up in a big way for the 76ers, carrying the team on his shoulders amid the absences of Embiid and George. Despite the 76ers' struggles, Maxey has remained productive and endeared himself to the Philadelphia fanbase with his infectious energy and passion for the game.

  • On March 4, 2026, Doug Collins made his comments about Maxey prior to the 76ers' game against the San Antonio Spurs.

The players

Tyrese Maxey

The Philadelphia 76ers' rising star point guard who has emerged as the team's best player in the absence of Joel Embiid and Paul George.

Doug Collins

A former guard and head coach for the Philadelphia 76ers, who is now a prominent NBA analyst and commentator.

Joel Embiid

The 76ers' star center, whose health and future with the team remains uncertain.

Paul George

The 76ers' star forward, who is currently serving a drug-related suspension, adding to the team's uncertainty.

VJ Edgecombe

Maxey's young backcourt partner, who the 76ers worked hard to keep as they look to build around the duo.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Tyrese Maxey is my favorite player in the NBA. I hope these Philadelphia fans know they have the star of stars. His personality, his performance, the smile, the joy with which he plays the game. I just think it's such a tremendous thing for this city of Philadelphia and he's got a great sidekick now in VJ Edgecombe.”

— Doug Collins, Former 76ers Guard and Head Coach (NBC Sports Philadelphia)

What’s next

The 76ers will continue to lean on Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe as they navigate the uncertainty surrounding Joel Embiid and Paul George's futures with the team.

The takeaway

Tyrese Maxey's emergence as a star player for the Philadelphia 76ers has provided a glimmer of hope for the franchise during a difficult transitional period. His infectious personality and elite play have earned him the admiration of former 76ers great Doug Collins, who believes Maxey is the team's new face of the franchise.