Bucks Outpace Bulls Despite Their Strengths
Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered a dominant performance, scoring 41 points, grabbing 15 rebounds, and providing nine assists, as the Bucks defeated the Bulls 126-110. This marked the Bulls' second loss of the season and evened their record at 1-1 in the NBA Cup.
Close Competition in Pace and Scoring
Both teams entered their matchup in the NBA Cup with similar pace and scoring abilities. The Bulls ranked seventh in the league, averaging 120.4 points per game, while the Bucks trailed closely at 119.9 points per game. However, the key difference lay in Milwaukee’s star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Giannis’ Impact in the Fourth Quarter
Nineteen of Antetokounmpo's points came in the decisive fourth quarter, where he overwhelmed the Bulls with his force and intensity. Bulls head coach Billy Donovan remarked on his exceptional effort:
“He’s just a handful with the way he plays. I’ve got great respect for his motor, intensity and the way he competes, but you’re going to have to, at a certain point, match force with force. He without question in the fourth quarter overwhelmed us.”
Challenges for Bulls Defenders
Isaac Okoro tried to guard Giannis early on but quickly faced foul trouble. Other Bulls players had to step in to contain the star, who aggressively attacked whenever he found space.
“He just started going at us one-on-one, and when he sees space, he’s going to attack it,” said Okoro.
Summary
Despite the Bulls’ speed, shooting, and depth, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s star power proved decisive in shifting the game in the Bucks’ favor.