The NBA Emirates Cup is down to two teams as Sunday’s action featured the in-season tournament’s semis showdowns.
Here’s what went down:
Bucks Hold Off Hawks Behind Giannis Antetokounmpo Masterclass
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s near triple-double of 32 points, 14 rebounds, and 9 assists propelled the Milwaukee Bucks to a 110-102 triumph over the Atlanta Hawks to book a ticket to the NBA Emirates Cup.
Despite Antetokounmpo’s spectacular showing, the Bucks were actually still trailing going into the final five minutes of the game. But a 12-3 finish led by the former MVP gave Milwaukee the hard-fought victory.
Damian Lillard had 25 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 steals for the Bucks, who bucked Trae Young’s own masterclass of 35 points and 10 assists. Jalen Johnson and De’Andre Hunter chipped in 15 apiece for the Hawks. Brook Lopez added 16 for the Bucks, who climbed to 14-11 after starting 2-8.
Thunder Stop Rockets with 70-Point Outburst After Intermission
Held in check by the defensive-minded Houston Rockets in the game’s first 24 minutes, the Oklahoma City Thunder eventually found their groove in the second half. The result was a 70-point explosion that helped OKC top Houston, 111-96, to arrange an NBA Emirates Cup final with the Bucks.
After one half, the Thunder actually trailed, 42-41. But a 34-27 third quarter for the Thunder led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander gave OKC the lead for good, 75-67. The West’s top seed never looked back, scoring another 36 points in the payoff period to rout the Rockets.
Gilgeous-Alexander with a game-high 32 points on top of 8 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 steals. Isaiah Hartenstein, Jalen Williams, and Lu Dort added 21, 20, and 19, respectively. Amen Thompson’s 19 points led the Rockets, who also got 13 points and 11 rebounds from Alperen Sengun.
When Is the NBA Emirates Cup Final?
The NBA Emirates Cup Final between the Bucks and Hawks is set on December 18, also at Las Vegas. The two teams will be battling for bragging rights and a $500,000 cash prize.
