Giannis shines as Bucks secure spot in NBA Cup Final in Las Vegas.© (@_halftimehoops )
Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered a stellar performance, scoring 32 points and securing 14 rebounds to lead the Milwaukee Bucks to a 110-102 victory over the Atlanta Hawks, securing a spot in the NBA Cup final. The Bucks will now face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the final on Tuesday (01:30 GMT, Wednesday) in Las Vegas, where Shai Gilgeous-Alexander matched Antetokounmpo’s scoring output with 32 points in a commanding 111-96 win over the Houston Rockets in the other semi-final.
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Antetokounmpo, the NBA’s current scoring leader, further showcased his dominance with nine assists, four blocks, and a steal. Key contributions from Damian Lillard, who added 25 points, and Brook Lopez, with 16 points, bolstered the Bucks’ efforts. On the opposing side, Trae Young stood out for Atlanta, delivering a game-high 35 points, ten assists, and seven rebounds.
Reflecting on the victory, Antetokounmpo highlighted the team’s collective effort and discipline. “We were able to disrupt their offense,” he said. “We were moving the ball, playing team basketball, getting to our spots, knocking down a few shots down the stretch. That’s why we were able to get the win. We trust one another. We play together. There’s no more hero ball.”
The Bucks have shown remarkable improvement since a challenging start to the season, where they managed just two wins in their first ten games. Winning 12 of their last 15 games, Milwaukee has the chance to redeem themselves after falling short in the semi-finals of last season’s inaugural in-season tournament.
In the Western Conference clash, Gilgeous-Alexander played a pivotal role in Oklahoma City’s strong second-half surge. Alongside his 32 points, the Canadian guard recorded eight rebounds, six assists, and five steals, solidifying his standing as one of the club’s increasing stars. “I just wanted to be assertive via all the ups and downs, highs and lows, and it paid off,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “Hopefully, we can do the same thing on Tuesday. If we play defense, we give ourselves a chance every night. We have to play hard, play together, and have fun.”
With both teams showcasing top-tier talent and resilience, the stage is set for a highly anticipated NBA Cup final in Las Vegas.
