SAN ANTONIO (AP) – In an eagerly anticipated matchup, the Milwaukee Bucks narrowly edged the San Antonio Spurs 125-121 in a thrilling game that showcased a face-off between Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo and Spurs’ rookie Victor Wembanyama.
Antetokounmpo led Milwaukee with a stunning 44 points and 14 rebounds, while Wembanyama, celebrating his 20th birthday, shone brightly with 27 points. Spurs’ Devin Vassell topped the scoring for his team with 34 points.
The encounter, marked by high energy and skillful plays, was a treat for fans and coaches alike. “That was a fun game to coach, a fun game to watch,” said Milwaukee coach Adrian Griffin, admiring the versatility of both big men.
The long-awaited duel between Antetokounmpo and Wembanyama lived up to its billing, with both 7-footers displaying their prowess in the game’s final moments. They traded clutch 3-pointers and defensive plays, with Antetokounmpo drawing a crucial charge on Wembanyama and then hitting a decisive 3-pointer to push Milwaukee ahead.
Wembanyama, not to be outdone, blocked Damian Lillard’s layup and tied the game with a 3-pointer, exhibiting his fearlessness in crunch time. “You can tell that he’s not scared of the moment,” praised Milwaukee’s Khris Middleton.
In a nail-biting finish, Wembanyama blocked an Antetokounmpo dunk attempt, setting up a potential game-tying shot. However, Spurs’ Tre Jones missed a critical 3-pointer, allowing the Bucks to clinch the victory.
Lillard also made a significant contribution with 25 points and 10 assists. Wembanyama, reflecting on his performance, acknowledged studying Antetokounmpo’s aggressive style, striving to be a formidable opponent on the court.
The rookie’s impact was palpable, with 9 rebounds, 5 blocks, and an efficient 10-of-18 shooting. His electrifying play included a self-assisted two-handed dunk and a one-handed dunk over Brook Lopez, igniting the Spurs, who are striving for better results in a challenging season.
The Bucks next face Houston on Saturday night, while the Spurs take on Cleveland on Sunday, carrying the momentum of a promising performance against a championship-level team.
