Philadelphia 76ers fans bring high hopes to home opener against Trail Blazers

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Sunday was a big night for Philadelphia sports fans, as it marked the Sixers' home opener against the Portland Trail Blazers.

The 76ers ended up defeating the Trail Blazers 126-98, only adding to the energy at Wells Fargo Center.

The team has a new head coach, Nick Nurse, who is hoping to help them rebound from another disappointing exit in the playoffs last season.

Committed fans made sure to get to the Wells Fargo Center early, some arriving as early as 3 p.m. for a 7:30 p.m. game

"I mean, I think it's important that we show our support. These guys think of it, they look at who's out here, and it fuels them sometimes. I think it's important we come out, it's the home opener," said Benjamin Zborowski from Hatboro.

The 76ers kicked off their season on the road, but Sunday night they were home for the first time.

READ | Lillard scores 39 points in his Bucks debut to help Milwaukee edge the Philadelphia 76ers 118-117

"I'm excited, we usually watch the games at home. We don't normally go to a lot of games, so it's exciting to be at the first home game," explained Victoria Rosenbaum from Hatboro.

A group of friends from Montgomery County who also play basketball together didn't want to miss a thing. That's why they got to the stadium very early.

They have high hopes for the team this year and their new coach.

"The new coach is better. Doc Rivers wasn't good in the playoffs crunch time," said Javier Velez from Horsham.

No matter what team is having their moment, Philly fans show up, and on Sunday it's for the Sixers.

"The way I like to think about it, Wayne Gretzky said, 'You miss every shot you don't take, therefore, every time we step on this court, or the Phillies go onto the field, or the Flyers go onto the rink, there's a chance to win. There's a chance to do great,'" Zborowski said.

Despite the high energy from everyone in attendance, it was the kids who showed the most enthusiasm for the Sixers.

"Go 76ers!" exclaimed Carson Kelly from Newtown Square.

Alyssa Kelly was excited for the team's win since Sunday was her birthday.

"It says, 'It's my birthday, win for me! Go 76ers!'" she said describing a sign she made.