Rapid Recap: Bucks 126, Bulls 110

The Milwaukee Bucks kicked off their NBA Cup title defense with a 126-110 victory over their I-94 rivals, the Chicago Bulls. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the way with an impressive performance, scoring 41 points, grabbing 15 rebounds, and dishing out nine assists. Myles Turner contributed significantly, adding 23 points, seven rebounds, and four steals.

For the Bulls, Matas Buzelis was the standout player, and the only one to reach 20 points, finishing with 20 points and eight rebounds, shooting 8-of-12 from the field. Josh Giddey also had a strong game, tallying 16 points, 14 assists, and seven rebounds.

Game Start and First Quarter

The Bucks had an uneasy start, missing their first five shots, while Buzelis scored six quick points on perfect layup attempts, giving Chicago an early 8-1 lead with 8:55 remaining. Giannis made Milwaukee’s only initial point on a free throw, followed by AJ Green’s first field goal for the team in the next possession.

Despite Chicago’s hot start, neither team put on an offensive showcase during the first quarter. Together, they scored only 48 points and shot 43.1% (19-of-44) from the floor. Chicago led by as many as eight points, but the Bucks fought back with a 7-2 run in the last 2:37, cutting the lead to two points at the quarter’s end, 25-23.

Second Quarter Momentum

After a slow offensive start, both teams began to find their flow in a competitive, back-and-forth second quarter.

“Giannis’ 19-point fourth quarter keeps the Bucks unbeaten in NBA Cup play.”

This strong finish in the final quarter was key to Milwaukee’s undefeated streak in the NBA Cup.

Author’s summary: Giannis’ dominant late-quarter surge powered the Bucks’ triumph over the Bulls, highlighting Milwaukee’s strong start to the NBA Cup defense.

Brew Hoop — 2025-11-08