The Milwaukee Bucks started their NBA Cup title defense with a 126-110 victory over their I-94 rivals, the Chicago Bulls. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the way with an impressive performance, scoring 41 points, grabbing 15 rebounds, and dishing out nine assists. Myles Turner also contributed significantly with 23 points, seven rebounds, and four steals.
The Bucks had a slow start, missing their first five attempts. Meanwhile, Matas Buzelis made an immediate impact, scoring on his first three layups and helping Chicago take an 8-1 lead with 8:55 left in the first quarter. The Bucks' only point early on was from a Giannis free throw, followed by AJ Green’s first field goal for Milwaukee.
Despite Chicago’s strong opening, the first quarter was not high-scoring, with both teams combining for just 48 points and shooting 43.1% (19/44) from the floor. The Bulls led by as much as eight points, but the Bucks fought back with a 7-2 run in the last 2:37 of the quarter to reduce the deficit to two points, 25-23.
“Giannis’ 19-point fourth quarter keeps the Bucks unbeaten in NBA Cup play.”
After a slow offensive start, both teams began finding their rhythm in a competitive back-and-forth battle.
Giannis’ dominant fourth quarter and balanced scoring helped the Bucks overcome an early deficit to remain undefeated in NBA Cup action.