Bucks Set Franchise Record in Record-Setting Win Over Suns

MILWAUKEE – The Milwaukee Bucks snapped a four-game losing streak with a record-setting performance, defeating the Phoenix Suns 145-115 on Tuesday night. Shooting an astonishing 68.9% from the field, the Bucks achieved the highest single-game shooting percentage in the NBA this century.

“I kept saying to my teammates, ‘We’re fighting for our lives,'” said Giannis Antetokounmpo, who led the team with 37 points, 11 assists, and 6 rebounds. “They think I’m joking, but I’m not joking. Every win counts.” The victory is critical for the Bucks, who currently sit sixth in the Eastern Conference and are aiming for a better playoff seed.

Milwaukee’s shooting display was historic, with only one other team, the 1998 Denver Nuggets, having shot higher in a game when they hit 69.3% against the Minnesota Timberwolves. This season, the Bucks made 51 of 74 shots, including a season-high 58.6% from 3-point range (17 of 29).

Brook Lopez also had a standout performance, contributing 22 points on 10-of-13 shooting. He emphasized the need for the team to return to their offensive rhythm, stating, “I think we were a bit disappointed in our offense the past few games… We got back to moving it, sharing it, trusting it.”

Despite their shooting prowess, the Bucks faced adversity, nearly squandering a 21-point lead as the Suns clawed back to within four points. But a pivotal 3-pointer by rookie Rollins sealed the win with just over a minute left.

Coach Doc Rivers acknowledged the gaps in his team’s game but expressed optimism surrounding their offensive capabilities. “We’re so close to being an incredible offensive team. If we can rebound the ball and take care of the ball, we’ve got a chance to break out and make a hell of a run here,” he said.

On the other hand, the Suns are grappling with injuries. All-Star Kevin Durant is unlikely to play during their current road trip due to a left ankle sprain sustained last Sunday. Coach Mike Budenholzer remains hopeful for Durant’s return before the regular season ends but noted the urgency of securing victories as the Suns vie for a play-in tournament spot.

“We’re certainly hopeful,” Budenholzer commented on Durant’s recovery, as the Suns are currently ranked 11th in the Western Conference, two games behind the ninth-place Dallas Mavericks. “These next few days will be important, but we are optimistic he will be back before the end of the season.”

Budenholzer returned to Milwaukee for the first time after being dismissed as the Bucks’ coach two years ago, following a 271-120 record during his tenure. He expressed appreciation for his time in Milwaukee despite the loss. “It was five great years here. I’m forever appreciative to the organization, to the players, to the fans here,” he said.

The interconnected narratives of both teams emphasize the fiercely competitive nature of the season, with the Bucks aiming to solidify a playoff spot while the Suns seek redemption amid injury struggles. It remains to be seen how each team will fare in the crucial weeks ahead.