MILWAUKEE — Giannis Antetokounmpo urged the Milwaukee Bucks to recognize the urgency of their situation, motivating them to achieve a remarkable shooting performance.
The Bucks halted a four-game losing streak by achieving a franchise-best 68.9% shooting rate in a 133-123 win against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night. According to data from Sportradar, it was the highest shooting percentage recorded by any team since the Los Angeles Clippers achieved a 69.3% rate in 1998 during a victory over the Toronto Raptors.
“I kept telling my teammates that we’re in a fight for our lives,” emphasized Antetokounmpo. “They think I’m joking, but this is serious. We have to win every game we can.”
Currently in the sixth position within the Eastern Conference, the Bucks are vying to avoid their lowest playoff seed since 2018. After a defensively challenging game where they conceded a season-high number of points in a defeat to Atlanta, team morale was in need of a lift. Their roster uncertainty continues due to seven-time all-NBA guard Damian Lillard’s deep vein thrombosis, which has sidelined him indefinitely.
Milwaukee’s performance showcased incredible shooting precision from all players. Giannis Antetokounmpo stood out with 37 points, 11 assists, and six rebounds, converting 12 of his 18 attempts. But the team effort was equally significant.
Ryan Rollins played a pivotal part by netting 23 points, connecting on 8 of 10 attempts, including 5 of 7 from the three-point line. Brook Lopez, marking his 37th birthday, contributed significantly by scoring 22 points on 10 of 13 shooting. Overall, the Bucks achieved a season-high by making 58.6% of their three-pointers (17 of 29).
Brook Lopez attributed the turnaround to a more fluid offense. “We were disappointed with our offense in recent games. Tonight, we shared the ball better, moved effectively, and capitalized on our transition opportunities,” he said.
Antetokounmpo’s approach, as usual, was both aggressive and strategic. “I understood the need to seize every opportunity,” Antetokounmpo elaborated. “When I wasn’t in a position to be aggressive, I ensured to make the right play and find the open man.”
Despite their hot streak, the Bucks nearly squandered a 21-point lead after halftime. The Suns managed to close the gap to four points before Rollins’ timely 3-pointer with just over a minute remaining eased Milwaukee’s lead.
Phoenix kept the game competitive, taking advantage of Milwaukee’s 20 turnovers and scoring 24 second-chance points compared to the Bucks’ three.
According to Suns coach Mike Budenholzer, the Bucks simply had a stellar shooting night. “Our defensive effort was commendable, but Milwaukee just could not miss tonight,” he reflected.
A similar issue plagued the Bucks during Sunday’s game when they shot 69% in the first half but still fell behind due to turnovers and defensive lapses.
“We are on the verge of being an exceptional offensive team,” stated Bucks coach Doc Rivers. “Our shooting has been outstanding, but if we clean up our rebounds and take better care of the ball, we’re poised to go on an incredible run.”
Nonetheless, Tuesday’s game brought a crucial victory. “Winning changes everything,” noted Antetokounmpo. “It makes everything in life, from sleep to meals, more enjoyable. I’m not fond of losing, so this win was vital for us.”