NBA Cup: Bucks Beat Bulls, Giannis Antetokounmpo Scores 41 Points
Milwaukee started their NBA Cup title defense strongly with a 126-110 victory against the Chicago Bulls on Friday night. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 41 points, 15 rebounds, and nine assists.
The Bucks improved to 9-0 in group play throughout the NBA Cup’s three-year history. The team lost to Indiana in the semifinals two seasons ago but defeated Oklahoma City 97-81 last year to claim the title.
“Giannis Antetokounmpo drives to the basket against the Chicago Bulls.” (Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images)
Game Highlights
- Antetokounmpo scored 19 points in the fourth quarter, sealing Milwaukee’s victory.
- He shot 16 of 32 from the field, his first game this season below 61.5% accuracy.
- Myles Turner contributed 23 points — his highest since joining Milwaukee.
- Ryan Rollins added 20 points, supporting the Bucks’ offensive run.
Chicago’s Performance
- Matas Buzelis led the Bulls with 20 points and eight rebounds.
- Josh Giddey posted 16 points, 14 assists, and seven rebounds.
- Giddey had recorded triple-doubles in his previous two games, becoming the first Bulls player since Michael Jordan in April 1989 to achieve consecutive triple-doubles.
- Chicago had opened its NBA Cup campaign earlier with a 135-125 win over New York.
Context
Milwaukee continues to demonstrate dominance in early-stage Cup games, aiming for back-to-back titles. Their balanced lineup and Giannis’s leadership remain central to their success.
Author’s summary: Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 41-point game pushed Milwaukee to a commanding win over Chicago, keeping the Bucks undefeated in NBA Cup group play history.