NBA: Giannis-missing as Lillard inspires Bucks to victory over Phoenix Suns
Damian Lillard put on a stellar performance, scoring 31 points and dishing out 16 assists, to lead Milwaukee Bucks to a 140-129 victory over the Phoenix Suns on Sunday.
Despite the absence of star player Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was sidelined with left hamstring soreness, the Bucks managed to secure the win, propelled by their 3-point shooting prowess.
Antetokounmpo, known for his average of 30.8 points and 11.2 rebounds per game, missed only his fourth game of the season and his first since March 4, when he was sidelined with Achilles tendinitis.
The Bucks dominated the game, particularly from beyond the arc, hitting 24 3-pointers in total. Phoenix fought hard to close the gap, trailing 109-94 after three quarters but narrowing the margin to 122-115 with 6:17 left in the game.
However, a crucial 3-pointer by Lillard extended Milwaukee’s lead to 134-120 with 3:18 remaining, sealing the victory.
Khris Middleton contributed 22 points in his first game back after missing 16 games due to a sprained left ankle. Additionally, Bobby Portis and Malik Beasley each knocked down five 3-pointers for the Bucks.
Despite the loss, Bradley Beal led the Suns with 28 points, followed by Grayson Allen with 25 points and Devin Booker with 23 points.
