MILWAUKEE — The Oklahoma City Thunder, currently leading the Western Conference, secured a decisive victory over the Milwaukee Bucks with a score of 121-105 on Sunday night. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge for the Thunder with an impressive performance, tallying 31 points and distributing eight assists.
Isaiah Hartenstein notably contributed a career-high 24 points while also grabbing 12 rebounds, bolstering the Thunder’s momentum to capture their 10th win in 11 games. Additionally, Isaiah Joe provided a significant boost from the bench by scoring 19 points, and Chet Holmgren chipped in with 16 points alongside eight rebounds.
For the Bucks, Giannis Antetokounmpo achieved his 52nd career triple-double, recording 21 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists. Damian Lillard contributed 19 points, although he struggled with his shooting, connecting on only 3 of 9 attempts from the field.
The Thunder surged ahead for good early in the second quarter, eventually establishing as much as a 25-point lead. Their shooting efficiency was commendable at 51.7%, in stark contrast to Milwaukee’s 39.8%.
Both teams entered the game on the back of a grueling schedule, having played the previous night as well. Oklahoma City emerged victorious over the Detroit Pistons 113-107, while Milwaukee overcame the Indiana Pacers 126-119 at home.
**Takeaways**
The Thunder demonstrated their depth, overcoming challenges with key players Jalen Williams and Luguentz Dort sidelined due to hip injuries. Williams was particularly missed as he sat out his third consecutive game.
As for the Bucks, the loss marks the beginning of a challenging period, with a five-game road trip against formidable Western Conference teams looming.
**Key Moment**
Giannis Antetokounmpo electrified the crowd with a dunk that trimmed the Thunder’s lead to 46-41 with just under five minutes left in the second quarter. However, a scoring drought ensued for the Bucks, lasting until the start of the third quarter, while the Thunder went on a 13-point run to widen their lead to 59-41.
**Key Stat**
The Bucks experienced their lowest scoring half of the season, trailing 53-41 at halftime. Their output in the second quarter was particularly concerning, being outscored 29-15, a match for their season-low in any second quarter.
**Up Next**
Looking ahead, the Bucks are set to visit the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Thunder will welcome the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday for their next matchup.
