MANILA, Philippines – The defending champions Miami Heat reached another milestone after staging a late rally to beat the Philadelphia 76ers.

LeBron James scored 27 points and Dwyane Wade added 21 – including a key putback – as the Heat outlasted the Sixers 98-94.

It was Miami’s 20th straight win this season, something only three other teams have accomplished throughout the history of the league.

James drew some early cheers from the home crowd in Philadelphia by throwing down thunderous dunks in the first half.

Miami led by 12 at the break, but the Sixers fought their way back, even taking a lead briefly in the fourth quarter behind the strong play of All-Star guard Jrue Holiday.

But just like some of their wins in the current streak, the Heat found a way to pull off the victory. The biggest basket was Wade’s pubtack off a miss by James.

Miami improves to 29-14 this season, nine and a half games clear of second-running Indiana in the Eastern Conference.

The Heat will go for their 21st consecutive victory when they visit Milwaukee in their next assignment. – Report from ANC