The Milwaukee Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo‘s 32 points and 11 rebounds, defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 114-105 during Thursday’s NBA action, returning from a challenging West Coast trip.
Brook Lopez added 19 points and seven rebounds, and Damian Lillard contributed 17 points and nine assists for the Bucks, eager to regain their footing after recent setbacks, including a significant loss to the Sacramento Kings.
For the 76ers, Tyrese Maxey stood out with 30 points, concluding their road trip with a record of 1-2. Contributions from Tobias Harris and Cam Payne, who added 15 and 13 points, highlighted the team’s effort without star Joel Embiid.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks, Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
The Bucks found their stride in the fourth quarter, taking the lead with Bobby Portis‘s layup and extending it with AJ Green’s crucial plays, including three free throws and a 3-pointer.
“It’s my job to stay ready, and when shots are there, you just let it rip and trust that they’ll fall,” Green said after coming off the bench to score 14 points in 28 minutes.
While missing key players due to injuries, the Bucks showcased their depth and adaptability against a 76ers team that was also facing its challenges without Embiid and struggling to generate offense.
“I feel like we had the right juice today. We had fun, and it showed on the court,” Payne said.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks, Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Despite the 76ers’ strong start, highlighted by effective shooting in the first half and a significant lead, the Bucks’ adjustments in the fourth quarter were pivotal.
“I think that the effort was really good,” Philadelphia coach Nick Nurse said. “We were doing a lot of things we wanted to do. We turned them over a bunch in the first half. Probably the difference in the game, we didn’t quite get to as many turnovers in the second. But I thought we did a lot of really good things.”
Bucks coach Doc Rivers acknowledged the 76ers’ aggressiveness but noted the shift in momentum in the final quarter.
“They were the instigators the entire first three quarters,” Rivers said. “I thought in the fourth quarter it flipped.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks, Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Lopez’s success from beyond the arc, hitting 5 of 10 3-point shots, was attributed to the attention Antetokounmpo and Lillard drew from the defense.
“They draw so much attention, rightfully so,” Lopez said. “The gravity of that pick and roll. It pulls everyone in. You’ve just got to be ready on the weak side.”
Looking ahead, the 76ers are set to host Charlotte on Saturday, while the Bucks will welcome Phoenix on Sunday, each team looking to build on their performances during Thursday’s NBA action.
