Las Vegas, NV – The Milwaukee Bucks secured the inaugural NBA Cup championship on Tuesday night, defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder 97-81 in a decisive victory. The win marked a significant milestone for the Bucks, showcasing their strength and teamwork in the newly established tournament. The game, played in Las Vegas, saw the Bucks connect on 17 three-pointers, overpowering the Thunder and solidifying their position as a top contender in the league.
The Bucks’ triumph wasn’t just about offensive firepower; it was a display of all-around dominance. Led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, who delivered a stellar performance with 26 points, 19 rebounds, and 10 assists, Milwaukee controlled the game from start to finish. Damian Lillard added 23 points, further fueling the Bucks’ offensive surge. This victory comes as the Bucks continue to build momentum, aiming to contend for a championship this season.
Giannis Leads Bucks to Victory
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s performance earned him the Tournament MVP award, recognizing his exceptional contribution throughout the NBA Cup. His ability to impact all facets of the game – scoring, rebounding, and assisting – proved crucial in overcoming the Thunder’s challenge. Antetokounmpo expressed pride in his team’s performance, stating, “It’s great, it’s great for our team. We’re getting better… We know we’re leaving Vegas as a better team. I’m so proud of this group.”
The Bucks’ 19-5 run in the second half proved to be the turning point, extending a five-point lead to a commanding 19-point advantage early in the fourth quarter. This surge effectively sealed the Thunder’s fate, as Milwaukee maintained control for the remainder of the game. Brook Lopez and Gary Trent Jr. Each contributed 13 points, providing valuable support to Antetokounmpo and Lillard.
Thunder Struggle from Beyond the Arc
Despite a strong season and a reputation for high-scoring games, the Oklahoma City Thunder struggled to find their rhythm against the Bucks’ defense. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 21 points, while Jalen Williams added 18, but their efforts weren’t enough to overcome Milwaukee’s dominance. The Thunder shot only 34% from the field and were outscored 51-15 from beyond the arc, a key factor in their defeat. Gilgeous-Alexander acknowledged the team’s shooting struggles, stating, “We didn’t shoot it well… But that’s never an excuse.”
The Thunder, who had previously scored at least 99 points in every game this season, were held to just 31 points in the second half. Isaiah Hartenstein contributed 16 points and 12 rebounds for Oklahoma City, but the team’s overall offensive output fell short against the Bucks’ relentless defense.
NBA Cup Championship: A New Era
The Milwaukee Bucks joined the Los Angeles Lakers as the only champions of the 2-year-vintage NBA Cup event. The tournament, designed to add excitement to the early NBA season, has quickly become a focal point for teams vying for a new title. The Bucks’ victory demonstrates their commitment to excellence and their ability to perform under pressure.
The Bucks’ win over the Thunder, 97-81, on December 17, 2024, marks a significant achievement for the franchise and signals a promising future for the team. The game recap from ESPN details the key moments and statistics that contributed to Milwaukee’s success. Read the full game recap on ESPN.
The Associated Press also covered the event, highlighting the celebration among Bucks players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, and Brook Lopez. View the AP News coverage and photos here.
The NBA Cup championship win is a testament to the Bucks’ dedication and strategic gameplay. As they move forward, the team will undoubtedly look to build on this success and continue their pursuit of championship glory. The victory provides a strong foundation for the remainder of the season and sets the stage for an exciting playoff run.
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