Giannis and Lillard Shine as Bucks Defeat Short-Handed Clippers
In a game where Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo combined for 69 points and 21 assists, the Milwaukee Bucks secured a 124-117 victory over the depleted LA Clippers.
Bucks’ Stars Dominate
Giannis recorded 34 points, 10 assists, and 7 rebounds, while Lillard contributed 35 points, 11 assists, and 7 rebounds. Despite missing key players Paul George and Kawhi Leonard, the Clippers were competitive with Norman Powell scoring a team-high 26 points, but James Harden’s 13 points on 5-of-16 shooting couldn’t prevent their two-game winning streak from ending.
Tight Contest Until the Fourth Quarter
The game remained close for the first three quarters, with neither team establishing a double-digit lead. However, a crucial fourth-quarter surge led by Lillard, who scored 16 points in less than three minutes, allowed the Bucks to pull away and secure the win with a 10-point lead in the final minutes.
Lillard Proud of Crucial Contributions
Lillard, who played 38 minutes and shot 11-of-19 from the field, including 7-of-13 from three-point range, expressed pride in his ability to take on responsibility in crucial moments. He emphasized the importance of accepting and understanding one’s occasional poor performance, a sentiment he believes not everyone can handle.
Giannis and Lillard Make NBA History
Giannis and Lillard made NBA history as the first pair of teammates since 1980 to each record at least 34 points, 10 assists, and 7 rebounds in the same game. They became the seventh pair of teammates in NBA history and the second since 1980 to achieve at least 30 points and 10 assists each in a game.
Building Chemistry
Both Giannis and Lillard highlighted the importance of their chemistry on the court, emphasizing that their effective collaboration is a result of their hard work and dedication in practice.
Bucks Look to Maintain Momentum
Giannis stressed the need for the Bucks to continue their performance, especially in clutch moments, as they look ahead to future games.
Lillard Confident in Growing Partnership
Lillard expressed confidence in the growing partnership between himself and Giannis, noting that it takes time for two players who have been primary decision-makers for their teams to adjust to playing together.(Lvbet)
