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BBC Sport captured three historic moments this weekend that are redefining sports across the globe. The Philadelphia 76ers shocked the basketball world with a stunning 3-1 playoff comeback, Cherie DeVaux made history at the Kentucky Derby, and Barcelona is closing in on the La Liga title. Here’s what you need to know about this epic sporting weekend.
🔥 Quick Facts
- 76ers Historic Win: Philadelphia defeated Boston 109-100 in Game 7, becoming just the 14th team ever to complete a 3-1 series comeback in NBA playoff history.
- Derby’s First Woman Trainer: Golden Tempo won the 2026 Kentucky Derby at stunning 23-1 odds, with trainer Cherie DeVaux becoming the first female trainer to ever win the Run for the Roses.
- La Liga Leadership: Barcelona holds a commanding lead over Real Madrid in the title race with an El Clásico showdown scheduled for May 10 that could seal the championship.
- Global Sports Moment: May 2-3 delivered three record-breaking achievements across basketball, horse racing, and soccer in stunning fashion.
76ers Complete 14th 3-1 Playoff Comeback in NBA History
The Philadelphia 76ers did the unthinkable on May 2, eliminating the Boston Celtics 109-100 in a nerve-shredding Game 7 at the TD Garden. The victory caps off one of the most dramatic playoff comebacks ever witnessed, as the 7th-seeded 76ers roared back from a 3-1 series deficit against the 2nd-seeded Celtics.
Joel Embiid delivered a commanding performance in the decisive game, with Tyrese Maxey providing crucial support down the stretch. This marks the first time the 76ers have beaten the Celtics in a playoff series since 1982, ending a painful six-series losing streak to their Eastern Conference rivals. The win sets up a thrilling second-round matchup against the New York Knicks.
BBC Sport covers 76ers’ historic comeback, Derby winner DeVaux, and La Liga title race
SNL cold open features Aziz Ansari debuting as Kash Patel in FBI press conference
| Milestone | Details |
| Series Final Score | 76ers 4, Celtics 3 |
| Game 7 Result | 109-100 76ers Victory |
| Comebacks in NBA History | 14th Ever (Extremely Rare) |
| Last Win vs Boston | 1982 (44 Years Ago) |
Golden Tempo Storms to Kentucky Derby Victory with 23-1 Longshot Odds
At the Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, horse racing history was rewritten when Golden Tempo, a stunning 23-1 long shot, surged from dead last to win the 152nd Kentucky Derby. The victory is remarkable not only for the dramatic come-from-behind finish but for making Cherie DeVaux the first female trainer ever to win the legendary Run for the Roses.
Jockey Jose Ortiz guided Golden Tempo through a furious stretch drive, edging out the favored Renegade by a neck in one of the most thrilling finishes in recent Derby memory. The stunning upset capped a career-defining moment for DeVaux, who overcame years of barriers in the male-dominated world of horse racing. Golden Tempo earned $3.1 million from the $5 million purse on May 2.
“I’ve always believed in these guys, we came together and accomplished something special that nobody thought was possible.”
— Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers Star Guard
Barcelona Poised to Claim La Liga Crown Against Real Madrid
Barcelona is on the verge of sealing their second consecutive La Liga title, holding a commanding advantage over Real Madrid with crucial matches remaining. The Catalan giants can clinch the championship as early as this weekend, or at the latest during the highly anticipated El Clásico showdown scheduled for May 10, 2026.
Head coach Hansi Flick has orchestrated a dominant campaign, with Barcelona sitting atop the standings with exceptional form. The La Liga title race is all but decided heading into the final matches of the season. A victory in the El Clásico would secure the trophy and extend Barcelona’s recent dominance over their fierce rivals. Fans across Europe are watching closely as one of soccer’s greatest rivalries reaches a critical juncture.
| Team | Position | Key Upcoming Match |
| Barcelona | 1st (Leading) | El Clásico May 10 |
| Real Madrid | 2nd (Trailing) | Must Chase Points |
| Villarreal | 3rd | Out of Title Race |
Why This Weekend Matters for Global Sports
When historic moments align, sports fans worldwide take notice. The 76ers’ improbable playoff comeback gives hope to every team facing elimination. DeVaux’s breakthrough shatters barriers in male-dominated sports. Barcelona’s title march signals shifting power in European soccer. These aren’t just games, they’re defining chapters in sports history that transcend leagues and continents.
What’s Next for These Historic Stories?
The Philadelphia 76ers face the Knicks in their next playoff battle, hoping their combustible offense maintains this incredible momentum. Golden Tempo could be headed to the Preakness Stakes to pursue the Triple Crown, though DeVaux will carefully consider her horse’s next challenge. Barcelona simply needs to avoid disaster against Real Madrid on May 10 to cement back-to-back La Liga dominance. Will these three stories continue their fairy-tale runs, or have we already witnessed the peak moments?
