Antetokounmpo needs to net 44 points to overcome Wembanyama’s Spurs

Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered an outstanding performance with 44 points and 14 rebounds, leading the Milwaukee Bucks to a hard-fought 125-121 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday night. Despite a remarkable showing by Victor Wembanyama on his 20th birthday, the Bucks emerged triumphant.

Wembanyama showcased his skills with 27 points, while Devin Vassell led the Spurs with an impressive 34 points. The anticipated first meeting between Wembanyama and Antetokounmpo was delayed due to the French rookie’s sprained ankle on December 19 in Milwaukee, but it lived up to expectations.

With three minutes remaining, Antetokounmpo drew a charge on Wembanyama right after sinking a crucial 3-pointer to tie the game at 118. The Greek star then added another 3-pointer just 34 seconds later, giving the Bucks a 121-118 lead. In response, Wembanyama blocked Damian Lillard’s layup and drained a 3-pointer to even the score with 53 seconds left.

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Wembanyama’s pivotal block on an attempted dunk by Antetokounmpo set the stage for a potential game-tying shot. However, Wembanyama opted to pass up a contested 3-pointer, giving the ball to Tre Jones, whose attempt from the right corner fell short. Lillard contributed 25 points and 10 assists to the Bucks’ winning effort.