The Milwaukee Bucks (3-8) took control of the game from start to finish to take down the Toronto Raptors (2-10) 99-85 on November 11. The Bucks never trailed in the game.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the charge with an explosive all-around performance, racking 23 points, 4 rebounds, 7 assists, and 4 steals. Bobby Portis added a solid 17 points and 8 rebounds from the bench. Ryan Rollins and Aj Green, both thrust to the starting lineup provided some boost with 12 each. Damian Lillard was sidelined today due to concussion protocol.
On the other hand, the Raptors were spearheaded by Gradey Dick who had a career night dropping 32 points with 5 rebounds. Jakob Poeltl registered 13 points and 8 rebounds while Bruno Fernando added 8 points and 13 rebounds.
No Lillard, No Problem
The Bucks exploded out of the gate, sinking 4 three-pointers to pull ahead to 19-9. But the Raptors battled back, with everyone putting in the work but Milwaukee held firm. Dick got going in the second, scoring 12 but the Bucks still maintained their double-digit advantage.
The Raptors roared back to life after the break, tying the game with a powerful 11-0 surge. But the Bucks responded with a vengeance, stretching their lead back to (75-59) on a three-pointer from Rollins. Portis closed out the quarter strong with six quick points, further solidifying the Bucks’ control. Milwaukee carried their momentum into the fourth, starting with a 7-point burst and building an imposing 21-point lead that effectively put the game out of reach.
Today marked the first of four group-stage games in the NBA Emirates Cup, with the Bucks and Raptors squaring off in East Group B alongside the Indiana Pacers, Miami Heat, and Detroit Pistons.
Up Next
The Bucks face the Pistons tomorrow while the Raptors will take on the same team on Saturday.
