The stage is set for the NBA Cup Finals, and Giannis Antetokounmpo understands the task ahead. His Milwaukee Bucks secured a 110-102 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday to advance to the championship game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
After securing their spot, Antetokounmpo emphasized the need for his team to lock in for the final. "The only thing really matters right now is to get a win, and that's the message within our team right now," he said, per Jamal Collier of ESPN. The Greek star recorded impressive stats, scoring 32 points, collecting 14 rebounds, and dishing out nine assists, shooting 10-of-15 from the field. Following closely was Damian Lillard, who added 25 points to the Bucks' tally, alongside seven assists, six rebounds, and three steals.
The Bucks' victory not only secured their first trip to the NBA Cup Finals but also placed them on the brink of significant financial rewards, as winning players would earn over $500,000 each. The Thunder clinched their spot by defeating the Houston Rockets 111-96, marking their first trip to the championship as well. Last year's inaugural title went to the Los Angeles Lakers, who defeated the Indiana Pacers.
A tight game ensued, with Milwaukee's fourth-quarter surge seeing them outscoring the Hawks down the stretch. With the score knotted at 96-95, the Bucks executed a 7-1 run, effectively sealing the game. Damion Lillard hit the final jumper, putting the team up by seven with just 23 seconds left.
Antetokounmpo's defensive prowess played a key role late, highlighted by his pivotal block on Clint Capela, echoing reminiscently of the clutch block he executed against DeAndre Ayton during the 2021 NBA Finals. At this high-stakes level, solid defense can spell the difference between outcomes, and Milwaukee proved their mettle just when it mattered most.
Despite Trae Young's valiant effort, scoring 35 points with 10 assists and seven rebounds to lead the Hawks, it wasn't enough to clinch victory. Young struggled to find support, with only Bogdan Bogdanović adding 10 points and Clint Capela contributing six points and eight rebounds.
Reflecting on the game, Antetokounmpo shared the importance of teamwork, stating, "We made stops, and we adjusted defensively against the Hawks' rhythm." This teamwork was evident as players stepped up and found their shooting positions, with key assists leading to effective scoring opportunities.
The Bucks head to the finals with renewed momentum after overcoming their rocky start to the season, where they began 2-8. They have significantly turned things around, boasting a 12-3 record since then. Antetokounmpo expressed the need for his team to remain focused, stating, "We've changed our season around, but we've gotta keep going." His leadership has inspired teammates to commit to growing as one cohesive unit.
Looking forward to the finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, players are eager to seize the moment. Antetokounmpo advised, "Just enjoy the game, take it one possession at a time, and the result will follow. If we compete, victory will take care of itself." His words propelled the Bucks as they prepare to tackle their next challenge, seeking to clinch their first NBA Cup title.
With the final matchup scheduled for December 17 at the T-Mobile Arena, anticipation builds. The Bucks not only have the chance to win the NBA Cup but stand to gain financial security as well—an incentive for every player on the roster. Eyes will surely be on the Milwaukee Bucks as they engage with the Thunder for what's expected to be a thrilling championship clash.
