The Milwaukee Bucks achieved a thrilling victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, overpowering them with a final score of 135-127 on February 9, 2025. Damian Lillard led the charge for the Bucks with a season-high 43 points, along with eight assists and seven rebounds, showcasing his significant impact on the game.
Missing their star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has been sidelined by a strained left calf, the Bucks needed someone to step up—and Lillard did just this. Bucks coach Doc Rivers emphasized Lillard's necessity to be both an aggressive scorer and playmaker prior to the game, saying, "I told Dame he needed to be aggressive" (as reported by AP). Lillard responded to the challenge, noting, "I think I hit my first 2 threes. Obviously, that's a good sign." Through his performance, Lillard was instrumental, particularly during the later stages when he hit key three-pointers to help solidify the lead.
The Bucks showcased a remarkable three-point shooting ability, hitting 24 of 55 attempts, surpassing their previous season high of 23 three-pointers against the Detroit Pistons earlier this season. Lillard was at the forefront of this effort, going 8 for 15 from beyond the arc. Gary Trent Jr. also shone brightly, adding 23 points to the mix and providing offensive support where the team needed it the most. Coach Rivers praised Trent Jr. for his toughness, commenting, "He’s fearless. He makes shots. He’s tough." Rivers revealed the great moment he appreciated was when Trent Jr. ripped the ball from Joel Embiid's hands, reinforcing Trent’s aggressiveness on the court.
The 76ers, meanwhile, faced challenges as their star guard Tyrese Maxey, also put up impressive numbers with 39 points, continuing his streak of at least 25 points for the eighteenth consecutive game. Joel Embiid contributed 27 points but struggled to maintain momentum, managing only three points during the second half. Coach Rivers mentioned his appreciation for the competition, noting there were 22 lead changes within the first 27 minutes of the game before Milwaukee pulled away.
This victory was especially significant for the Bucks, who had only managed to win two out of their last seven games leading up to this contest. The game came shortly after the team made notable roster changes, including trading franchise icon Khris Middleton. Newly acquired Kyle Kuzma made his first start for the Bucks, finishing with 13 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. Kuzma expressed his excitement about playing at Fiserv Forum, saying, "Man, it was exciting... to play in front of this fan base was sick." This was Kuzma's second game with the Bucks since joining the team.
With the win, the Bucks hope to regain some fan confidence as they prepare for their next challenge against the Golden State Warriors. This win is undoubtedly a morale booster for the Bucks, especially as they navigate the challenges of their current lineup changes and injuries.
The Bucks' success story from this game doesn't simply stem from one player; it was the collective effort from various team members coming together to support the team during Antetokounmpo's absence. The stakes are high, especially as both the Bucks and 76ers eye upcoming games, with the 76ers hoping to break their losing streak against the Toronto Raptors next.
The battle was filled with ups and downs, but Milwaukee’s ability to pull through, especially with Lillard leading the way, demonstrates their resilience and determination as they continue through the season without their star forward. With every game, the Bucks build confidence, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting finish to the season.