The Milwaukee Bucks ended their NBA Cup campaign on a high note Tuesday night, defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder in a commanding 97-81 win in Las Vegas. While the game won’t impact the official standings, it delivered a loud message to the league about Milwaukee’s resurgence.
The Bucks‘ journey to this moment hasn’t been smooth. Early-season struggles had critics labeling them as pretenders, but the team has silenced doubters with a 14-6 stretch, culminating in their NBA Cup triumph. With this victory, Milwaukee not only claimed the inaugural NBA Cup title but also solidified its place among Eastern Conference contenders.
Andre Jackson Jr. celebrates NBA Cup win: “This victory shows our power as a team”
Throughout the game, the Bucks leaned on their two stars, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, to deliver on both ends of the court. Antetokounmpo’s physicality and Lillard’s sharpshooting set the tone, but it was Milwaukee’s stifling defense that truly stood out. The Thunder, hailed by many as championship favorites, endured a miserable shooting performance, hitting just 33.7% from the field and a meager 15.6% from beyond the arc.
This wasn’t Oklahoma City’s night, as the young and talented roster failed to find its rhythm. Meanwhile, the Bucks showcased why they remain a force to be reckoned with. Brook Lopez anchored the paint, while Antetokounmpo’s relentless presence made scoring inside a daunting challenge.
Bucks rookie Andre Jackson Jr. shared his thoughts after the game, highlighting the team’s defensive prowess. “When you’ve got Brook Lopez and Giannis down there, it’s going to be hard for anyone to score,” he said. While Jackson celebrated the victory, he emphasized the team’s hunger for continued success.
This win could propel Milwaukee in the regular season
Despite the non-traditional nature of the NBA Cup, the win carries weight for a Bucks squad eager to regain respect in a competitive league. As the holiday season approaches, the Bucks have a reason to celebrate-and perhaps so does Jackson’s mother, who, according to the rookie, is in line for an unforgettable Christmas gift.
For Milwaukee, the NBA Cup trophy is more than just hardware; it’s a turning point in a season that began with doubt and is now brimming with potential.
