Giannis Returns, Bucks Edge Clippers in Thrilling Finish

MILWAUKEE, Wis. — Giannis Antetokounmpo made a triumphant return to the court on Thursday, scoring 23 points in just 24 minutes as the Milwaukee Bucks secured a 116-110 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers at home. Antetokounmpo’s performance came after a six-game absence due to injury, including a stint away from All-Star weekend.

Brook Lopez contributed significantly to the team’s success with 22 points, while Damian Lillard and Taurean Prince added 15 and 14 points, respectively. The Bucks outscored the Clippers by 15 points in the fourth quarter to seal the win.

Milwaukee faced challenges as they played without forward Bobby Portis, who was suspended for 25 games for violating the NBA‘s anti-drug policy earlier in the day. Despite the setback, the Bucks managed to pull ahead in the final minutes of the game.

Antetokounmpo, who was on a minutes restriction, showed resilience after missing games due to a strained left calf and right knee pain. He also recorded a team-high eight rebounds. ‘It felt great to be back out there and help my team,’ Antetokounmpo said after the game.

Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with 25 points, aided by James Harden’s 24 points and Ivica Zubac’s 20 points and 15 rebounds. But the Clippers could not maintain their momentum down the stretch, despite tying the game at 104 on Kris Dunn‘s 3-pointer with 4:51 remaining in regulation.

Milwaukee started strong, trailing 29-28 at the end of the first quarter. Lopez ignited the crowd with back-to-back 3-pointers during a 17-5 run, helping Milwaukee achieve a 49-40 lead late in the second quarter. At halftime, the Bucks held a 57-50 advantage.

The Clippers mounted a comeback in the third quarter, outscoring Milwaukee 39-23, highlighted by a flurry of offense that allowed them to take an 89-80 lead. However, momentum shifted back to Milwaukee in the final period.

After a bucket from Harden gave the Clippers a 100-93 edge with 7:12 left on the clock, Lopez’s timely three-pointer ignited an 11-1 run for the Bucks, pushing them to a 104-101 lead.

Lillard sealed the victory with four consecutive free throws, ensuring Milwaukee’s win amid a competitive matchup.