MILWAUKEE, Wi. — On a day that can be described as nothing short of anarchy, anger and disappointment for the entire United States of America, Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks were set to face off in their second match-up against the Detroit Pistons in the last three days.
The Players Make Their Decision
There was a lot of discussion prior to tip-off as to whether there could be a boycott of tonight’s games. Similarly to what occurred back in late August following the shooting of one Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
With the entire state of Wisconsin curious as to what the decision would be from the players, a choice needed to be made. Both the Bucks and Pistons players did eventually take the court and begin warm-ups. Although they decided to play, both teams decided to protest in form of kneeling after the tip as a demonstration. A strong, peaceful, but necessary action taken by the players to show that they are displeased to say the least with what transpired today in the nation’s capital.
Dominance From The Start Leads to Blowout Victory
Even with all of the craziness going on, and with the focus of today being on anything but basketball, there was a game that was played. The Bucks got off to a very quick start and never looked back. Milwaukee put up 44 points in the first quarter alone, following that up with yet another impressive second, scoring 38 points. It was another run of the mill, impressive night for the two time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. He finished the night with a team-high 25 points and eight rebounds.
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Detroit struggled to keep Milwaukee out of the paint. Their defense was no better at the three point line allowing the Bucks to hit 19/43 three pointers (44.2%). One big key to Milwaukee’s success from behind the line tonight was their elite passing. Milwaukee totaled a season high 35 assists on the night. Seven different Buck’s players hit threes tonight. This included guard Khris Middleton hitting an impressive five of his six attempted three point shots.
Struggles For Detroit
For Detroit, their disappointing season continued as the loss tonight dropped them to an NBA worst 1-7 record. Newcomer Jerami Grant had himself an impressive night putting up a career high 31 points in the blowout loss. That was where the positives ended for the Pistons. Former All-Star forward Blake Griffin’s 2021 pains continued as he was unable to crack double digits in the scoring column for the second time in this young season.
Up Next!
The Bucks continue their five game homestand Friday night when the 4-4 Utah Jazz come into town following their Wednesday night loss to the New York Knicks. Catch the game on Fox Sports Wisconsin (7:00 p.m. CT).
Detroit will look to end their three game skid Friday night against the Phoenix Suns, tip-off (6:00 p.m. CT).
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