LAS VEGAS — The Milwaukee Bucks celebrated a significant achievement in Las Vegas last night, clinching the NBA Cup with a decisive 97-81 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Bucks showcased their impressive skills, particularly from beyond the arc, sinking 17 three-pointers, while their star player Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered an outstanding performance with 26 points, 19 rebounds, and 10 assists. Damian Lillard contributed 23 points, further solidifying the Bucks’ dominance in the tournament.
This championship marks the Bucks’ place alongside the Los Angeles Lakers as champions of the two-year-old NBA Cup event. A pivotal moment in the game was a 19-5 run by the Bucks in the second half, which transformed a five-point lead into a commanding 19-point advantage early in the fourth quarter. Lillard expressed pride in the team’s collective performance, emphasizing their strong defense and execution throughout the game.
Despite a challenging night for the Thunder, where star players Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams scored 21 and 18 points respectively, the team struggled with their shooting, particularly from three-point range, where they were heavily outscored 51-15. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault acknowledged the offensive challenges but also highlighted defensive successes in the paint.
The victory not only earned the Bucks a trophy but also significant financial rewards, with players receiving around $514,971 each, while the Thunder players received about $205,988. Despite this being a tournament game that doesn’t contribute to the regular season records, it represents a turning point for the Bucks, who have been on a roll, improving to a 12-1 record in NBA Cup games.
Head coach Doc Rivers reflected on the team’s journey, noting their resilience and unity, and Antetokounmpo stated, “Job’s not done,” indicating a continued pursuit of success. This hopeful mindset reinforces their ambition as they prepare for the rest of the season.
In summary, the Bucks’ triumph in the NBA Cup serves as a testament to their hard work and determination, setting a positive tone as they look ahead to the challenges of the regular season. With this victory, the team leaves Las Vegas with renewed confidence and a commitment to continue improving on their journey towards another title.