The Milwaukee Bucks are heading back to the NBA Cup semifinals after a nail-biting 114-109 win over the Orlando Magic on Tuesday night. Giannis Antetokounmpo powered the Bucks with 37 points, while Damian Lillard sealed the deal with nine of his 28 points coming in the final minute.
Milwaukee, the only returning team from last year’s semifinals, will face either the New York Knicks or the Atlanta Hawks in Las Vegas on Saturday.
Antetokounmpo’s Historic Streak
Giannis Antetokounmpo continued his remarkable season, extending his streak to 22 consecutive games with at least 20 points on 50% shooting. This achievement now holds the record for the longest streak to open a season in NBA history. His efficiency from the floor, shooting 15 of 24, kept the Bucks in control during key stretches of the game.
This milestone also ranks as the third-longest streak of its kind at any point in an NBA season, behind Shaquille O’Neal and Zion Williamson, who each recorded 25-game streaks.
Antetokounmpo wasn’t just scoring — his energy and presence on both ends of the court were pivotal as the Bucks battled a resilient Magic team.
Lillard’s Late-Game Heroics
Damian Lillard, Milwaukee’s prized offseason acquisition, came alive in the closing moments. With the Bucks clinging to a slim lead, Lillard scored nine points in the final minute, including clutch free throws to ice the game.
Orlando’s Jalen Suggs, who led his team with a career-high 32 points, missed a potential game-tying 3-pointer with just seconds remaining. Lillard’s composure at the line ensured Milwaukee’s spot in the semifinals.
“Dame Time” delivered again, reinforcing why the Bucks paired him with Antetokounmpo in their championship quest.
Short-Handed Magic Show Grit
The Orlando Magic entered the game missing several key players, including Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jonathan Isaac. Despite the absences, their bench contributed significantly in the first half, with Moritz Wagner and Anthony Black combining for 23 points.
However, Orlando’s reserves couldn’t sustain their momentum in the second half. Wagner was held scoreless after halftime, and the Magic leaned heavily on Suggs to keep them competitive.
Orlando’s effort, even without their full roster, showcased the depth and determination of this young team.
Khris Middleton’s Playmaking Shines
While Khris Middleton didn’t score in the game, his playmaking ability stood out. He recorded eight assists, three of which were instrumental during a critical 11-0 Bucks run in the third quarter.
Middleton’s unselfish play helped Antetokounmpo and Lillard shine while also setting up teammates like Gary Trent Jr., who hit a key 3-pointer during that stretch.
Bucks Look Ahead to Las Vegas
As the Bucks prepare for the semifinals, they will face either the Knicks or Hawks. Both teams bring unique challenges, but with Antetokounmpo and Lillard firing on all cylinders, Milwaukee looks poised to make another deep run in the NBA Cup.
This win not only cements their status as one of the league’s elite teams but also reinforces the synergy between their stars and role players.
