Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George believes the team are "absolutely" a contender in the Eastern Conference of the NBA.

The Sixers defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 139-122 at Wells Fargo Center on Tuesday, leaving them sixth in the East with a 25-21 record on the season.

George led the scoring with 32 points as he tied the franchise record for most three-pointers made in a game (nine), while it was also the first time he reached those numbers since February 2019, when he was playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Sixers are yet to reach their expected heights with the trio of George, Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, but the former insisted they are to be feared in the postseason.

"Absolutely," George said when asked if Philadelphia is a serious contender. "I think we're right there with the New York Knicks, with the [Cleveland] Cavaliers.

"I think we're right in the mix. When things are clicking, and we're playing the right way, and we're firing on all cylinders, we still have the one unguardable player, and that's the trump card. So, yeah, absolutely, we got a chance."

PG tied the franchise record for most three-pointers in a single game.  pic.twitter.com/XpF2tWys6F

— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) January 28, 2026

Embiid contributed with 29 points, shooting 100% from the free throw line (six), nine rebounds and five assists in their win over the Bucks.

It was the 100th time in a regular season game that Embiid has recorded 25+ points, 5+ rebounds and 5+ assists, becoming the fifth Sixers player to do so after Allen Iverson, Hal Greer, Julius Erving and Charles Barkley.

Embiid has struggled with injuries in recent years, but the center is grateful to now be able to make regular contributions for his side.

"It feels so good. Every single time I step on the floor, I become emotional," said Embiid after the win.

"The last two year have been extremely tough, what I have been through with my family. I’m just happy. Finally being consistent, being on the floor, I don’t take it for granted."