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Bucks Overcome Early Antetokounmpo Setback to Defeat Pistons 113-109

Isaiah Steward and Bobby Portis in a tense moment

Key Takeaways:

  • Milwaukee Bucks secured a 113-109 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday night despite losing Giannis Antetokounmpo to a right calf strain three minutes into the match
  • Kevin Porter Jr. led the Bucks with 26 points, while Ryan Rollins contributed 22 points in a rare win for Milwaukee, just their second in the last 10 games
  • Jericho Sims delivered a career-high 15 points alongside 14 rebounds, and AJ Green’s late free throws sealed the triumph for Milwaukee

Match Analysis

The Milwaukee Bucks rallied to defeat the Detroit Pistons 113-109 on Wednesday evening at Fiserv Forum, overcoming the loss of Giannis Antetokounmpo, who exited due to a right calf strain less than three minutes after tip-off. This injury occurred shortly after head coach Doc Rivers confirmed that there had been no discussions with Antetokounmpo about leaving the franchise.

Kevin Porter Jr. topped the scoring for Milwaukee with 26 points, supported by Ryan Rollins who added 22 points. AJ Green also contributed significantly, posting 19 points, while Jericho Sims notched a career-best 15 points and matched his personal best with 14 rebounds. This win marks only the Bucks’ second in their last 10 outings.

Pistons’ Fast Start and Game Progression

Detroit commenced the game with a dominant 27-9 run in the opening quarter. Milwaukee responded strongly, cutting the deficit to 52-49 at the half, led by Porter’s 16 points in the first two quarters. The Bucks briefly claimed the lead at 56-55 early in the third period, courtesy of a Myles Turner three-pointer. However, the Pistons closed the quarter ahead, holding an 85-78 advantage.

Tobias Harris fronted the Pistons with 20 points, while Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey added 17 and 15 points respectively. Detroit had entered this contest buoyed by a run of 15 wins in their previous 17 games.

Key Moments and Late Drama

A pivotal moment arose with 1:34 remaining when Jericho Sims completed a three-point play to push Milwaukee ahead 109-108. In the closing moments, Rollins extended the Bucks’ lead by converting two free throws with 13 seconds left on the clock. Following a missed effort from Detroit, AJ Green secured the outcome with his own pair from the line.

The match also saw tempers flare late in the third quarter, as Bobby Portis and Isaiah Stewart engaged in a heated exchange following a foul by Portis. Stewart, having already received a technical earlier, was ejected after a double technical was assessed.

Looking Ahead

TeamNext Match
Detroit PistonsHost Portland on Friday night
Milwaukee BucksHost Philadelphia on Friday night

Scoring Leaders

Milwaukee BucksPoints
Kevin Porter Jr.26
Ryan Rollins22
AJ Green19
Jericho Sims15 (career high)
Detroit PistonsPoints
Tobias Harris20
Cade Cunningham17
Jaden Ivey15

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