On Wednesday, the Milwaukee Bucks faced the Golden State Warriors at the Chase Center in San Francisco, marking the second and final matchup of their season series. The Bucks previously won the first encounter 129-118 on Jan. 13 as part of the NBA's eight-game slate. The opening quarter showcased explosive performances from Giannis Antetokounmpo and Stephen Curry, setting an intense pace.
Damian Lillard and Bobby Portis made significant contributions to the Bucks. At the same time, the Warriors, led by Gary Payton II and Kevon Looney, displayed a well-rounded team effort, leading 40-32 by the quarter's end. Despite the Warriors' initial dominance, they extended their lead to 78-58 by halftime, emphasizing their first-half superiority.
Draymond Green fouls Giannis Antetokounmpo
The marquee clash between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Golden State Warriors featured some standout moments. One highlight was a dynamic transition play by the Bucks, initiated by Malik Beasley's steal. This created a 2-on-3 situation, with Beasley feeding Giannis Antetokounmpo as they charged down the court. Antetokounmpo, driving hard to the right, faced Draymond Green at the rim.
Despite Green's contested defense, a foul was called, leading to a visibly angry Green's vehement protest. The protest resulted in a technical foul, granting the Bucks three free throws – two for the initial foul on Antetokounmpo and another for Green's technical.
Lillard's Step-Back 3 Over Curry
Reacting to the early momentum from the Warriors, the Bucks turned to Damian Lillard to provide an offensive boost. Positioned at the top of the key, Lillard faced his longtime West Coast rival, Steph Curry. Without hesitation, Lillard executed a deceptive drive to the left, swiftly stepping back to sink a 3-pointer that seamlessly found the net. This showcased his pivotal contribution in reigniting the Bucks' offensive play.
Curry's First-Quarter Long-Range 3
In response to Damian Lillard's remarkable step-back three against the two-time MVP, Stephen Curry seized control. Advancing up the court, Curry positioned himself well beyond the arc, precisely at the 32-foot mark. Curry had ample space to execute with Brook Lopez in a defensive drop. Seizing the opportunity, he launched a deep 3-pointer that hit the mark, extending the Warriors' lead to seven points.
Trayce Jackson-Davis Double Block and Slam Dunk
In a remarkable sequence, Trayce Jackson-Davis achieved a rare feat by blocking Giannis Antetokounmpo twice during a single play. Antetokounmpo attempted both right- and left-handed shots, but Jackson-Davis thwarted both attempts. These defensive stops shifted momentum toward the Warriors, leading to a quick transition upcourt. Recognizing the opportunity, Chris Paul passed to Stephen Curry at the 3-point line. Drawing the defense's attention, Curry executed an ingenious lob to Jackson-Davis, who punctuated the play with a powerful slam dunk.
In a pivotal moment during the fourth quarter, the Milwaukee Bucks, trailing by 11 points, strategically chose to leave Draymond Green open from beyond the arc, banking on his historical inconsistency as a 3-point shooter. Contrary to expectations, Green showcased his improved shooting skills by sinking a 3-pointer from the top of the key. This decision backfired for the Bucks, as Green's successful shot exacerbated their defensive challenges.
In the subsequent possession, Stephen Curry's clever play left only himself and Green on the right wing and corner. Initially positioned for a catch-and-shoot opportunity from the wing, Green surprised everyone by opting for a corner 3, further diminishing the Bucks' comeback aspirations.
Upcoming Matches: Bucks Face Lakers, Warriors Host Bulls
The Bucks head to Los Angeles to face the Lakers on Friday, while the Warriors wrap up their two-game series against the Chicago Bulls on Thursday.