MILWAUKEE — In an electrifying start to the NBA season, the Milwaukee Bucks showcased their new playing style in a 133-120 victory over the Washington Wizards. The game opened with a pivotal moment when Bucks’ new starting center Myles Turner blocked a shot, prompting Khris Middleton of the Wizards to foul Giannis Antetokounmpo in an attempt to prevent a transition dunk.
Despite Middleton’s effort, Antetokounmpo continued to pressure the Wizards. Following the foul, he drove from the top of the key, but the Wizards effectively contained him, forcing a pass to Turner. Instead of settling for a shot, Turner made a powerful drive to the basket, finishing with an impressive dunk over Kyshawn George, much to the delight of the Fiserv Forum fans.
“I haven’t seen a play like that in a while,” Antetokounmpo remarked after the game. “Somebody with a Bucks jersey having a play like that … incredible play.”
Turner, while he managed only 11 points, contributed significantly with eight rebounds, five assists, and three blocks, demonstrating his versatility and selflessness that the Bucks expect as they adapt to a new team dynamic this season. Traditionally, the Bucks relied heavily on a big three comprising Antetokounmpo, Middleton, and Jrue Holiday, but this season, they aim to distribute scoring more evenly. Coach Doc Rivers emphasized that the team could see a range of players stepping up as secondary scorers behind Antetokounmpo.
Antetokounmpo led the Bucks in scoring with 37 points, supported by balanced contributions from the roster, with six players reaching double figures. This collective effort marks a departure from last year’s model, as the team embraces a faster pace and an emphasis on three-point shooting.
The Bucks shot 46% from beyond the arc, attempting 28 three-pointers in the first half alone, a significant increase from their past performances. The offensive strategy was clear, focusing on driving to the paint while locating open shooters. Kyle Kuzma, a key player for the Wizards, acknowledged the Bucks’ effectiveness, noting their ability to get downhill while finding open looks.
While some may caution against reading too much into the performance against what is expected to be one of the weaker teams in the league, the Bucks executed their offseason plan with confidence and poise. Throughout the game, when faced with adversity, the team remained steadfast, sticking to their game plan rather than panicking.
Antetokounmpo stressed the importance of shooting whenever players find themselves open, reflecting a culture of trust and confidence within the team.
“It doesn’t matter how it’s going to happen. … If you’re wide open and nobody’s around you or closing out, shoot the ball. If you miss? We come right back, shoot it again,” he stated.
The season opener has set a positive tone as the Bucks embrace a new identity, and while one game against the Wizards does not determine the course of the season, the commitment to their principles could bode well for their aspirations moving forward. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Milwaukee can sustain this new approach throughout the season.