In a nail-biting encounter on March 25, 2025, the Phoenix Suns edged out the Milwaukee Bucks 108-106 at PHX Arena, with Devin Booker sinking the game-winning shot with less than two seconds remaining. This thrilling victory allowed Phoenix to continue building momentum in the current NBA season, especially significant for Suns' head coach Mike Budenholzer, as it marked his first win against his former team since departing in 2023.
Kevin Durant was instrumental in this hard-fought match, leading all scorers with a remarkable 38 points, along with eight rebounds and five assists. His scoring prowess consistently challenged the Bucks' defense, allowing the Suns to stay competitive throughout the game. Meanwhile, Devin Booker complemented Durant's efforts by adding 19 points and dishing out 12 assists, ultimately securing the win with a clutch shot in the game's dying moments.
For the Bucks, two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered a stellar performance, scoring 31 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and providing five assists in 37 minutes of play, despite dealing with right patella tendinopathy. His resilience was evident, but his team struggled to perform under pressure in critical moments. Giannis reflected on the game, stating, "You have to get a stop. If we get a stop, maybe we have a whole different game. I feel like Devin Booker was able to get to his spot and get a wide-open look. We got to watch the film, I don’t know how that happened, how that took place."
Brook Lopez also made noteworthy contributions, scoring 23 points with 10 rebounds and shooting an efficient 8 of 14 from the field. However, it was Lopez's missed 18-foot jumper at the buzzer that sealed the Bucks' fate, ending their brief two-game winning streak and underscoring the team’s late-game execution issues that have plagued them this season.
Coach Doc Rivers, while acknowledging the challenging road trip, emphasized the need for better late-game execution, stating, "Giannis guarded Durant well, but Brook Lopez can’t play 41 minutes every night." These comments highlight the team's reliance on their star players, particularly with Damian Lillard absent due to a right calf strain and missing his third consecutive game.
The game was not just a test of skill but also of endurance, with both teams exchanging leads a staggering 15 times. The Suns managed to control second-chance opportunities, denying the Bucks crucial points from offensive rebounds. Ryan Dunn stepped up for Phoenix with 12 points and nine rebounds, and Nick Richards achieved a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds, further strengthening the team's overall performance.
As the Suns prepare to face the reigning NBA champions in their next game, they are buoyed by their recent success against the Bucks. Meanwhile, Milwaukee must regroup quickly, as they face the Denver Nuggets next, looking to improve their offensive execution and regain momentum. With playoff considerations looming, both teams are keen to refine their strategies as they head deeper into the season.
This game serves as a reminder of the fine margins in competitive basketball, and the Suns' victory was a product of determined defensive efforts and clutch shooting in critical moments. For the Bucks, it reinforces the need to address their late-game strategies and execution to avoid slipping further down the standings.
