The Milwaukee Bucks began their NBA Cup title defense with a decisive victory over the Chicago Bulls, defeating them on Friday. This match marked the second night of group play in the league’s in-season tournament, which this year features its third edition. All 30 participating teams are split into six groups of five, engaging in round-robin matches that also affect their regular season standings.
Bucks’ Strong Performance Against Bulls
Giannis Antetokounmpo, a two-time NBA Most Valuable Player, spearheaded the Bucks’ success, contributing significantly with 19 points in the fourth quarter. He ended the game with impressive numbers: 15 rebounds, nine assists, two steals, and two blocks. Antetokounmpo entered the game with an average of 32.3 points per game, helping the Bucks snap a two-game losing streak.
- Final Score: Bucks 119, Bulls 103
- Bulls’ Top Scorers:
- Matas Buzelis: 20 points
- Josh Giddey: 16 points, 7 rebounds, 14 assists
Bulls’ Standings Update
This defeat caused the Bulls to relinquish their top position in the Eastern Conference. The Detroit Pistons now lead the East after their fifth consecutive victory, which came against the Brooklyn Nets, winning 125-107 with Cade Cunningham scoring 34 points.
Other Notable Matchups
Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs broke their two-game losing streak by defeating the Houston Rockets 121-110. Wembanyama, who battled through a challenging first half, ended with 22 points. Meanwhile, Kevin Durant scored 24 points for the Rockets, who initially led by 11 points in the first half.
- Spurs’ Notable Players:
- Harrison Barnes: 24 points
- Julian Champagnie: 22 points
The Oklahoma City Thunder, reigning champions and last season’s Cup runners-up, defeated the Sacramento Kings 132-101. Isaiah Hartenstein starred with 33 points and 19 rebounds, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 30 points.
Other Game Highlights
- Denver Nuggets: Defeated Golden State Warriors 129-104 without Stephen Curry.
- Minnesota Timberwolves: Dominated the Utah Jazz 137-97 with Anthony Edwards scoring 37 points.
- Cleveland Cavaliers: Beat Washington Wizards 148-114, led by Donovan Mitchell’s 24 points.
- Miami Heat: Set a franchise record with 53 points in the first quarter against the Charlotte Hornets, winning 126-108.
The tournament will progress, with eight teams qualifying for the quarter-finals scheduled for December 9-10, and the semi-finals set for December 13. The championship game will be held on December 16, with the last four teams competing in Las Vegas.
