MILWAUKEE – Damian Lillard’s scintillating 40-point performance, surpassing the 20,000 career points milestone, and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s triple-double powered the Milwaukee Bucks to a 132-119 win over the San Antonio Spurs at Fiserv Forum on Tuesday. The Spurs played without their 7-foot-3 rookie sensation, Victor Wembanyama, due to a sore right ankle.
Antetokounmpo delivered a career-high 16 assists, along with 14 rebounds and 11 points, securing his 37th career triple-double in a dominating display. This marked his second triple-double of the season, echoing his previous achievement against the Atlanta Hawks.
Lillard’s landmark night saw him become the 51st NBA player, and eighth active, to reach 20,000 points. Achieving this in his 794th career game, Lillard is the 17th-fastest player to hit this milestone, joining the ranks of elite scorers like LeBron James and Stephen Curry.
The Bucks’ home form remained impeccable, extending their winning streak at Fiserv Forum to 14 games, the longest since 1990-91. Key contributors included Bobby Portis with 23 points and 10 rebounds, Khris Middleton with 17 points, and Brook Lopez, who added 14 points and six blocks.
The Spurs, struggling with form, saw Keldon Johnson lead their effort with 28 points and 12 rebounds. Zach Collins and Devin Vassell contributed 22 and 17 points, respectively. However, their woes continued, with the team losing 20 of their last 21 games.
Lillard’s night began with a layup in the opening minutes, contributing to his 19 points in the first quarter alone. The Bucks established an early lead with a decisive 21-1 run in the first quarter, setting the tone for the game.
Although the Spurs showed resilience, reducing the deficit to single digits in the third quarter, the Bucks quickly regrouped and extended their lead, effectively sealing the game.
The match also saw a heated moment in the fourth quarter, with Portis and the Spurs’ Jeremy Sochan each receiving technical fouls after an on-court scuffle.
Up Next:
- The Spurs look to rebound as they visit the Chicago Bulls on Thursday.
- The Bucks aim to continue their impressive form against the Orlando Magic on Thursday.
This victory for the Bucks, led by standout performances from Lillard and Antetokounmpo, not only cements their strong position but also highlights the depth and versatility of their roster.
