How did Giannis Antetokounmpo perform in Bucks victory over Philadelphia?
The Milwaukee Bucks began their season with a convincing 124-109 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center, with Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the charge alongside Damian Lillard in a promising display of chemistry.
Both teams were hit hard by absences, with the Sixers missing Joel Embiid and Paul George due to knee injuries, and the Bucks playing without Khris Middleton, who is recovering from bilateral ankle rehab. The missing stars turned the opener into a less-than-ideal preview of what each team could offer at full strength.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, Milwaukee’s dynamic duo, wasted no time showcasing their potential together. Antetokounmpo posted 25 points, 14 rebounds, and 7 assists, while Lillard added 30 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists.
The two stars seemed comfortable sharing responsibilities, blending their games smoothly despite Middleton’s absence. Lillard noted the importance of their early work together:
“Things take time,” Lillard said. “But coming to Milwaukee early and spending time together before camp helped us connect.”
Their performance is a promising sign as the Bucks seek redemption after last season’s early playoff exit.
With Embiid and George out, Tyrese Maxey shouldered much of the offensive burden. The reigning Kia Most Improved Player fought through a tough night, scoring 25 points but shooting just 10-of-31 from the field and 2-of-9 from deep.
Sixers coach Nick Nurse acknowledged Maxey’s role in the team’s future: “He’s got a great drive game and 3-point shot. But we’re pushing him to develop more of a mid-range game this season.”
Milwaukee’s offseason acquisition of Gary Trent Jr. paid immediate dividends. Known for his defensive prowess, Trent disrupted Maxey throughout the game, limiting his efficiency and setting the tone defensively.
“Our goal was to make it as hard as possible on [Maxey],” Trent said. “It’s about second effort and energy, staying persistent no matter what screens or challenges come.”
Milwaukee’s improved perimeter defense — with Trent, Taurean Prince, and Delon Wright — looks poised to elevate them this season.
The Bucks leaned into their size advantage, with Giannis, Brook Lopez, and Bobby Portis controlling the paint. Lopez, in particular, was a force defensively, recording six blocks. Nurse admitted Lopez’s shot-blocking made things tough for his team: “We challenged him too much, and he kept hurrying back to swat shots.”
With Embiid managing his minutes under what Nurse referred to as “The Plan,” new signing Andre Drummond stepped up for Philadelphia. The veteran center contributed 10 points and 13 rebounds in 25 minutes, showcasing his ability to fill the void when Embiid rests.
What’s Next?
Though injuries marred the opener, Milwaukee’s victory sends a clear message — Giannis and Lillard are ready to lead. If Middleton returns and their chemistry continues to grow, the Bucks could emerge as serious contenders this season.
As for the Sixers, they’ll need Maxey to keep growing and their stars to return if they hope to challenge the top teams in the East. Both teams have work to do, but the first glimpse of Giannis and Lillard together suggests exciting things ahead in Milwaukee.
