Lillard Shines in Bucks’ Victory Over 76ers Without Antetokounmpo

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Damian Lillard delivered a standout performance with 43 points, leading the Milwaukee Bucks to a 135-127 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday. The game took place at the Fiserv Forum, marking the Bucks’ first home game since acquiring Kyle Kuzma in a trade.

The Bucks were without two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, who missed his fourth consecutive game due to a strained left calf. Coach Doc Rivers stated before the game that Antetokounmpo was likely to remain sidelined as he continues recovering.

In addition to Lillard’s offensive firepower, Gary Trent Jr. contributed a season-high 23 points off the bench, and Bobby Portis recorded a double-double with 18 points and 12 rebounds.

Philadelphia’s Tyrese Maxey also had an impressive outing, scoring 39 points for the 76ers, marking the 18th consecutive game in which he scored at least 25 points. Joel Embiid followed with 27 points and 12 rebounds, while Guerschon Yabusele added 18.

The game was closely contested early on, featuring 22 lead changes in the first 27 minutes. However, the 76ers faltered in the second half, allowing the Bucks to extend their lead to as much as 25 points.

Lillard’s pivotal three-pointer allowed Milwaukee to take the lead for good at 70-69 with 9:19 left in the third quarter. The Bucks set season highs with 135 points, 24 three-pointers made, and 105 field goal attempts.

In his first home start for the Bucks, Kyle Kuzma added 13 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. Meanwhile, new acquisitions Jericho Sims and Kevin Porter Jr. were in uniform but did not see any playing time.

As the Bucks snapped a streak of six games with only one win, they look to build momentum heading into their matchup against the Golden State Warriors on Monday. The 76ers will host the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday, looking to end a three-game losing streak.