Damian Lillard dropped 34 points, including four three-pointers, to propel the Milwaukee Bucks to a much-needed 123-100 home victory over the Utah Jazz, snapping a six-game losing streak. This marked the Bucks’ first home win of the season, bringing their record to 2-6 after a rough start. Giannis Antetokounmpo contributed a double-double with 31 points and 16 rebounds, while Bobby Portis added 19 points off the bench.
After trailing 61-57 at halftime, the Bucks surged ahead with a commanding 31-16 third quarter, creating a lead Utah couldn’t overcome. Lillard praised the team’s resilience, saying, “Tonight we just came out with the right mentality…We just got to be able to use this as momentum going forward.”
Around the NBA: Timberwolves and Spurs Secure Wins
Timberwolves Rally Past Bulls: Anthony Edwards led a stunning fourth-quarter comeback, scoring 33 points as Minnesota defeated Chicago 135-119. Despite trailing until the final period, the Timberwolves exploded with a 45-24 run to close the game. Rudy Gobert, who tallied 21 points, praised Edwards’ improved playmaking. Six Timberwolves scored in double figures, with Julius Randle adding 22 points.
Spurs Top Trail Blazers Without Popovich: The San Antonio Spurs overcame the Portland Trail Blazers 118-105, with eight players scoring in double digits. The team continued to play without head coach Gregg Popovich, who is sidelined with an illness. The balanced scoring allowed the Spurs to control the game and secure a comfortable win.
This slate of games showcased strong performances from rising stars like Edwards, as well as the enduring talents of Lillard and Antetokounmpo, highlighting the dynamic shifts happening in the league early this season.
