In an exhilarating playoff rematch, the Milwaukee Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, secured a 122-114 victory over the Miami Warmth on Monday.
The sport took an intriguing flip because the Bucks constructed a commanding 25-point lead, solely to see the Warmth’s reserves mount a late comeback.
Antetokounmpo, who completed with 33 factors, emphasised the significance of closing out video games: “When you’re up 20, you’ve received to place them away. We weren’t in a position to try this tonight. Hopefully we will study from this.”
Outscored the Bucks 41-25 in 4th quarter
Regardless of Miami’s decided effort within the fourth quarter, the place they outscored the Bucks 41-25, the lead held agency for Milwaukee. A jumper by Duncan Robinson reduce the result in 115-109 with 1:22 left, however a vital three-point play by Antetokounmpo secured the victory.
Damian Lillard contributed 25 factors for the Bucks, whereas Bobby Portis had 16. On the Warmth’s facet, Tyler Herro was the standout performer with 35 factors, even within the absence of two-time All-Star middle Bam Adebayo, who was sidelined as a result of a bruised hip.
This recreation held particular significance because of the postseason and offseason connections between the groups. The Warmth had shocked the top-seeded Bucks in final season’s playoffs, resulting in vital adjustments in Milwaukee, together with the hiring of Coach Adrian Griffin. Moreover, the Bucks acquired Damian Lillard within the offseason, including intrigue to the matchup.
Warmth’s resilience
The Bucks took management within the second quarter, setting the stage for a possible blowout. Miami’s late surge, with Herro because the lone starter on the ground, showcased the Warmth’s resilience.
The Bucks, effectively conscious of the Warmth’s propensity for late comebacks, emphasised the significance of sealing the victory when given the chance.
Up subsequent, the Miami Warmth will host the Brooklyn Nets, whereas the Milwaukee Bucks will face the Toronto Raptors.