When Paul George joined the Philadelphia 76ers, expectations were high that he would be the crucial addition to push the team into serious Eastern Conference title contention. However, his debut season in Philadelphia turned out to be one of the most disappointing stretches in his career, both in terms of individual performance and the team’s overall results.
The Sixers finished the season with a disappointing 24-58 record, while George appeared in only 41 games due to injuries and difficulty adjusting. He posted averages of 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, shooting 54.3% true shooting—his lowest output since his sophomore year in the NBA. Despite signing a max contract intended to solidify the roster alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, George was not warmly received by Philadelphia fans, particularly as Embiid also battled injuries that severely impacted the team’s success.
Fan Interaction During the Eagles’ Super Bowl Parade
Philadelphia is known for its passionate and often unforgiving sports fanbase, and Paul George experienced this firsthand during the Eagles’ Super Bowl parade in February. Driving through the city amidst the euphoric crowd, George was recognized and confronted by a fan whose words stuck with him deeply. He shared the encounter openly on a podcast with Carmelo Anthony, explaining the personal effect it had.
[Guy] said, ‘We coulda kept Tobias!’ [laughs] ‘We coulda kept Tobias if you gonna do this shit.’ Shoutout TB. Ain’t no joke at TB, but it was some shit you take to the heart. Like you right. Facts. I got you.
—Paul George, NBA Player
Anthony responded, highlighting the impact of such blunt feedback in a major sports city.
That right there will wake your ass up tho. You probably woke up like, yo, what the f—? I gotta be ready for this shit.
—Carmelo Anthony, NBA Player
George echoed this sentiment, describing how the interaction motivated him to recommit himself.
I got to the crib, found the closest basketball, like let me get right.
—Paul George, NBA Player
Anthony reflected on his own experience with the directness of fans in large cities, emphasizing the necessity of staying sharp under scrutiny.
For me that was the beauty of playing in a big city. I know they gonna keep me sharp no matter what. Like I gotta stay sharp. I have to.
—Carmelo Anthony, NBA Player
The Comparison to Tobias Harris and Its Impact
George’s reference to Tobias Harris was notable, as Harris was the previous wing player expected to help bridge Philly’s lineup but ultimately struggled, becoming a frequent target of criticism. While George was brought in as a major upgrade, their statistical production in Philadelphia was surprisingly similar—Harris averaged 17.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists at 57.6% true shooting in his final Sixers season.
Harris, now with the Detroit Pistons on a two-year, $52 million contract, took note of Philadelphia’s struggles during George’s tenure. This season, the Pistons improved dramatically from 14 wins to 44 and pushed the New York Knicks to a competitive first-round playoff series. Harris also commented on how badly the Sixers performed after the Eagles’ parade, citing their poor record during a stretch when George played in only six games and the team went 1-5.
Pressure Mounts on Paul George and the 76ers Heading into Next Season
The Philly fan’s pointed comment that “we coulda kept Tobias” was grounded in the Sixers’ broader struggles, reflecting valid frustration. George and Anthony laughed about the exchange, with Anthony underlining the tough environment of playing in a big market that demands constant excellence.
Looking ahead to the 2025-26 season, Paul George faces immense pressure to improve his performance and help restore the Sixers as a contender. While Joel Embiid’s health remains a key variable beyond George’s control, he will need to demonstrate All-Star level production once more to satisfy Philadelphia’s demanding fanbase and avoid harsher criticism in the future.