Rapid Recap: Bucks 126, Bulls 110
The Milwaukee Bucks opened their NBA Cup title defense with a 126–110 victory over their I-94 rivals, the Chicago Bulls. Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered a dominant performance, scoring 41 points, pulling down 15 rebounds, and adding nine assists. His 19-point surge in the fourth quarter sealed the win and kept Milwaukee unbeaten in NBA Cup action.
Myles Turner contributed 23 points, seven rebounds, and four steals for Milwaukee. For Chicago, rookie Matas Buzelis led the way with 20 points and eight rebounds on 8-of-12 shooting, while Josh Giddey posted 16 points, 14 assists, and seven boards.
Slow Start Turns Fast
The Bucks stumbled early, missing their first five attempts, while Buzelis capitalized with three straight layups to give Chicago an 8–1 lead with 8:55 remaining in the first quarter. The only Bucks point came from a Giannis free throw before AJ Green scored their first field goal on the next possession.
Neither offense impressed in the opening quarter. The teams combined for 48 total points, shooting 19-of-44 from the field (43.1%). The Bulls led by as much as eight before Milwaukee closed the quarter strong with a 7–2 run, trimming the deficit to 25–23.
Finding Rhythm
By the second quarter, both teams began to settle in, trading buckets in a competitive, back-and-forth stretch that set the tone for the rest of the game. From there, the Bucks' depth and Giannis’ relentless attack proved too much for the Bulls to contain.
“Giannis’ 19-point fourth quarter keeps the Bucks unbeaten in NBA Cup play.”
Author’s Summary
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s fiery fourth quarter powered the Bucks past the Bulls, showcasing Milwaukee’s resolve and balance as they continue their unbeaten NBA Cup campaign.