During Sunday’s NBA action, the Milwaukee Bucks clinched a 124-117 win against the Los Angeles Clippers, marking their first victory in the California road trip.
Damian Lillard showcased his clutch performance, scoring 16 of his total 35 points in the fourth quarter, including three significant 3-pointers. Giannis Antetokounmpo contributed significantly with 34 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds, highlighting the superstar duo’s ability to take control of the game in crucial moments.
Their collaborative effort etched their names as only the second pair of teammates since 1980 to achieve at least 30 points and 10 assists each in a single game.
“It’s how we work in practice,” Antetokounmpo said. “We got a lot of good shots down the stretch. Tonight it worked, and it’s something we’re going to have to do moving forward.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Clippers Updates
The Bucks’ strategy in the fourth quarter revolved around Antetokounmpo and Lillard, who either scored or assisted on 31 consecutive points for Milwaukee, effectively overcoming the Clippers with their dynamic partnership.
“I think it’s getting much better,” Lillard said. “To start the season, I think a lot of people wanted it to just click and happen right away. But I think any time you put two guys together who have always been the decision-maker, always had their hands on the ball for years and years and years, it’s going to take time for us to learn how to play with each other.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Clippers Updates
Despite the absence of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George due to rest, following their participation in the previous day’s game, the Clippers faced the challenge head-on. James Harden stepped up, albeit with a 5-of-16 shooting performance, contributing 13 points and 11 assists.
“Those two guys, they’re great players, and we understand that,” Clippers coach Tyronn Lue said. “They had a good game. I thought Dame set the tone early and then took over the game late. Once he got going, it was hard to stop him. We tried to blitz, tried to do some different things, but he had it going and made some big shots.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Clippers Updates
The Clippers, also without Russell Westbrook due to injury, relied on Norman Powell, who scored 26 points, 20 of which came in the second half, providing a resilient performance against one of the top teams in the league.
This win for the Bucks was crucial to avoid a three-game losing streak and highlighted the importance of Lillard and Antetokounmpo’s partnership in their pursuit of championship contention.
