Tyrese Maxey Wins 2023-24 NBA Most Improved Player Award

Tyrese Maxey of the Philadelphia 76ers has been named the winner of the 2023-24 NBA Most Improved Player award, beating out Coby White of the Chicago Bulls. Maxey received 51 first-place votes and finished with 319 total points, narrowly edging out White's 305 points. "It feels good for my hard work and dedication to be recognized," Maxey said upon learning of the award.

The 23-year-old guard had a standout season, becoming the Sixers' second-leading scorer behind Joel Embiid after the team traded away James Harden. Maxey averaged career-highs of 25.9 points, 6.2 assists, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.0 steals per game while shooting 37.3% from 3-point range. He also made his first All-Star appearance and scored 50 or more points in three separate games, tied for the most in the NBA this season.

Why this matters: Maxey's rapid development into a star player has been critical for the 76ers, who relied heavily on his scoring and playmaking, especially when Embiid missed time due to injury. His continued growth bodes well for the Sixers' future as they aim to contend for an NBA championship.

Sixers president Daryl Morey praised Maxey's incredible work ethic and dedication to continuous improvement, stating that his path to becoming an All-Star in just his fourth season is inspirational. "Tyrese's trajectory suggests that this is just the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable career," Morey said. Coach Nick Nurse also highlighted Maxey's special joy and energy for the game of basketball.

Maxey is the second 76ers player to win the Most Improved Player award, joining Dana Barros who won it in the 1994-95 season. Despite Maxey's strong performance, the 76ers are currently trailing the New York Knicks 2-0 in their first-round playoff series. In the most recent game, Maxey's team-leading 35 points were not enough to secure a victory for the Sixers, who will return to action on Thursday, April 25, at home against the Knicks.

Key Takeaways

• Tyrese Maxey of 76ers wins 2023-24 NBA Most Improved Player award.
• Maxey had a standout season, averaging career-highs in points, assists, rebounds, and steals.
• Maxey's rapid development is critical for 76ers' championship aspirations.
• Maxey is the second 76ers player to win the Most Improved Player award.
• Despite Maxey's 35-point performance, 76ers trail Knicks 2-0 in playoff series.