Bucks Rally Past Clippers as Antetokounmpo Returns to Action

MILWAUKEE, WI — Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 23 points in his return from a six-game injury absence, leading the Milwaukee Bucks to a 116-110 comeback victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday night.

Antetokounmpo, limited to under 24 minutes due to a minutes restriction, exited the game for good with 6:27 remaining as the Bucks trailed 101-96. His teammates completed the comeback from a 13-point deficit in the fourth quarter while he rested on the bench.

“We just kept fighting and never lost faith,” Antetokounmpo said postgame. “It was important for me to contribute, but the team really showed its character tonight.”

Khris Middleton contributed significantly, scoring 22 points and giving the Bucks their first lead of the game by completing a three-point play with 3:02 left on the clock. The Clippers, on the other hand, missed their starting player, Paul George, who sat out due to knee soreness.

For the Clippers, James Harden scored 25 points and acknowledged the challenge of playing without George. “We knew we had to step up, but it wasn’t enough tonight,” he stated.

Los Angeles had a strong lead, going up 93-80 with less than 11 minutes remaining in the game. However, the tide turned quickly as Milwaukee’s defense intensified. Brook Lopez played a crucial role in the comeback, blocking a shot from Kris Dunn as the game was tied at 104. He subsequently converted a three-point play that put Milwaukee ahead for good.

The Bucks were also missing Bobby Portis, who began serving a 25-game suspension for testing positive for the painkiller Tramadol, a breach of the NBA’s anti-drug policy. Portis claimed the substance was taken by mistake.

“We had a new lineup, and we were missing a key player, but everyone stepped up,” said Middleton.

In the final moments, Lopez scored 12 of his 15 points, showcasing his effectiveness in closing out games. The win allowed Milwaukee to maintain its competitive standing in the Eastern Conference.

The Bucks will face former teammate John Wall when they travel to Washington on Friday. Meanwhile, the Clippers prepare for their matchup against Indiana on Sunday.