Giannis Shines as Bucks Dominate Pacers in NBA Cup Victory

Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered a stellar performance, recording his second triple-double of the season with 37 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists, as the Milwaukee Bucks cruised past the Indiana Pacers 129-117 on Friday. The Bucks led from start to finish, improving to a 2-0 record in the NBA Cup and continuing their strong form, having won five of their last six games.

Damian Lillard contributed significantly with 24 points and 13 assists, marking his third consecutive double-double. The Bucks’ balanced attack featured six players scoring in double figures, with Antetokounmpo achieving his 47th career triple-double.

Celtics Extend Winning Streak Behind Brown’s Heroics

Jaylen Brown scored 31 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, leading the Boston Celtics to a 108-96 victory over the Washington Wizards. The win marked Boston’s third straight overall and improved their NBA Cup record to 2-1. Jayson Tatum and Jrue Holiday added 16 points each, showcasing the depth of last season’s champions.

Clippers Keep Rolling Despite Injuries

The Los Angeles Clippers, missing top scorer Norman Powell due to a hamstring strain, secured a 104-88 victory over the Sacramento Kings. James Harden led the charge with 22 points and nine assists, extending the Clippers’ winning streak to four games. They now stand at 1-1 in the NBA Cup.

Jokic’s Triple-Double Not Enough for Nuggets

Nikola Jokic returned to action for the Denver Nuggets after missing three games due to the birth of his second child and delivered a dominant triple-double performance: 33 points, 17 rebounds, and 10 assists. However, the Nuggets fell short, losing 123-120 at home to the Dallas Mavericks. Naji Marshall stepped up for Dallas with a career-high 26 points in the absence of Luka Doncic, sidelined with a wrist injury.

Rookie McCain Sparks 76ers to Victory

Jared McCain made a bold statement with a standout 30-point performance, declaring himself “the rookie of the year” during the Philadelphia 76ers’ 113-98 win over the Brooklyn Nets. Despite missing key players Joel Embiid and Paul George, the 76ers ended a five-game losing streak.

McCain’s feat of seven consecutive games scoring 20-plus points places him in elite company with franchise legends Joel Embiid, Allen Iverson, Jerry Stackhouse, and Lee Shaffer.