DALLAS — In a remarkable display of resilience and skill, the Milwaukee Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 48 points, rallied from a 25-point deficit to secure a 129-117 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday night. This win marked the first for the Bucks under coach Doc Rivers following the midseason departure of Adrian Griffin.
The Bucks’ comeback began in earnest with a 15-0 run in the closing moments of the first half, slicing what had been a daunting deficit down to just five points. Damian Lillard contributed significantly to Milwaukee’s success, scoring 30 points in what became the second-largest comeback victory for the team this season. Antetokounmpo, showcasing his all-around game, also tallied 10 assists.
Luka Doncic put up a valiant effort for the Mavericks, scoring 40 points and distributing 11 assists. However, his stellar performance was overshadowed by Milwaukee’s rally, marking Dallas’s most substantial squandered lead in a loss this season.
The victory carries additional significance for Rivers, as it ensures he and his coaching staff will helm the Eastern Conference team in the upcoming All-Star Game on February 18. This opportunity arises as Joe Mazzulla of the East-leading Boston Celtics is ineligible this year, having coached in the previous edition.
The game also saw moments of concern for the Mavericks, particularly when Kyrie Irving, sidelined for the sixth game due to a sprained thumb, watched as Doncic momentarily left the court in the first quarter after a collision with Antetokounmpo.
Despite the Mavericks’ strong start, leading 44-20 after the first quarter and extending their lead early in the second, the Bucks mounted an impressive comeback. This included a pivotal five-point possession and a sustained 38-10 run that flipped the script in the third quarter.
Antetokounmpo, in a performance that underscored his dominance, efficiently scored 20 of his 28 attempts, registering his sixth 40-point game of the season. Bobby Portis also made notable contributions with a double-double of 12 points and 10 rebounds.
The Bucks look to maintain their momentum as they travel to Utah for their next game on Sunday night, while the Mavericks aim to rebound against Philadelphia on Monday night, hoping to leave behind the disappointment of a game that slipped through their fingers.
