According to Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers, Sunday’s performance agianst the Philadelphia 76ers was perhaps the best alla-round defensive effort he’s seen from his team since he took over the helm. Granted that reigning MVP Joel Embiid was sidelined due to injury, but there’s no denying that the Bucks still turned in an admirable effort in holding down the Sixers, en route to a dominant 119-98 victory at the Fiserv Forum.
Damian Lillard Vocal on Milwaukee Bucks’ Impressive Effort Against Sixers
Damian Lilalrd is not known for his defense, but even he has been pounding on this same drum of late. The eight-time All-Star is well aware of the fact that this has been a major chink in the armor for the Bucks and their championship aspirations this season, which is why he could not help but sound off on his team’s defensive effort against Philadelphia:
“I thought it was great,” Lillard said, via Eric Nehm of The Athletic. “I think our communication and our physicality really helped us deal with (their offense). We didn’t get caught sleeping. We weren’t relaxed. We were into their bodies and just played with a lot of physicality. And we were disruptive. And them going from spot to spot, we didn’t just let it happen, so I think that allowed us to defend it well.”
Lillard finished Sundays win with 24 points on 8-of-15 shooting, to go along with seven rebounds, nine assists, and two steals. He was his usually effective self on offense, which also included four makes from beynod the arc.
Dame has bought in on Coach Rivers’ call for improvements on the defensive end, and while Lillard won’t be in contention for a spot on the All-Defense team, there’s also no denying that he’s put in a commendable effort to work on his shortcomings on this facet of the game.
After all, it’s going to take a total team effort for the Bucks to win it all this year.
For More Wisconsin Sports:
Follow me on Twitter at @PaoloSongcoNBA, and follow us @WiSportsHeroics. Also, check out our Merchandise Here! Get 20% off with the code “WSH.” You can also reach out to Paolo Songco via email at pao.songco@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Wisconsin sports, click here! Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, Milwaukee Bucks, Wisconsin Badgers.
