The Milwaukee Bucks triumphed over the Orlando Magic with a score of 114-109, securing their place in the NBA Cup semifinals in Las Vegas. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the charge with an impressive 37 points, while Damian Lillard contributed significantly, scoring nine of his 28 points in the crucial final minute of the game.
This victory marks a return for the Bucks to the semifinals of the in-season tournament, having reached this stage last December. As the only team returning for Year 2, they will face the winner of the upcoming quarterfinal match between the New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks on Saturday.
Jalen Suggs stood out for the short-handed Magic, scoring 32 points. However, he missed a potential go-ahead three-pointer with just 12 seconds on the clock. Lillard was fouled shortly after and converted two free throws, extending the Bucks’ lead. Suggs then attempted a tying shot but was unable to find the mark.
In the final moments, Antetokounmpo sealed the game by making both of his free throws with only five seconds remaining, ensuring the Bucks held on for the victory.
The Magic faced challenges with several key players sidelined, including Paolo Banchero due to a torn right oblique, Jonathan Isaac with a right hamstring strain, and Franz Wagner, who also suffered an oblique injury. Guard Gary Harris was also out with a left hamstring strain.
Takeaways
For the Magic, their bench made a notable impact, scoring 28 points in the first half, highlighted by Moritz Wagner’s 13 points and Anthony Black’s 10. However, Wagner struggled in the second half and did not add to his tally.
On the Bucks’ side, Bobby Portis played a pivotal role in overcoming an early 11-point deficit, showcasing his shooting skills by hitting his first seven attempts and finishing the half with 16 points. He concluded the game with a total of 22 points and 10 rebounds.
Key moment
A standout moment for the Bucks came when Khris Middleton recorded three consecutive assists. His passes set up Antetokounmpo for scores and later facilitated a three-pointer from Gary Trent Jr., contributing to an 11-0 run that propelled the Bucks to a 78-70 lead. While Middleton did not score, his eight assists were crucial to the team’s success.
Key stat
Up next
The Magic are set to face either the New York Knicks or the Atlanta Hawks on Friday, as they look to bounce back from this defeat.
