Sixers Notes: Sixers grow closer on European trek

MANCHESTER, England - The 76ers will tell you the trip to Europe was beneficial.

Michael Carter-Williams developed into a team leader, and the Sixers bonded during the six-day trip.

Players who were strangers weeks ago were laughing like lifelong best friends in Bilbao, Spain, and Manchester.

"This has proven to be a real good exercise for us," Sixers coach Brett Brown said before Tuesday's 103-99 preseason loss to Oklahoma City at Phones 4U Arena. "It has been a positive experience."

Sixers forward Royce White, who has an anxiety disorder, did not accompany the Sixers on the trip. The Sixers said Tuesday that the team doctor told them it would be best for White to stay home.

"We are going to deal with him with respect," Brown said. "We are going to understand his situation and we are going to help him. It's really that simple, because I'll tell you what: When you watch that man play, he's a different type of player."

It was widely believed that White's perceived fear of flying contributed to his failure to play with the Houston Rockets as a rookie last season.