AP Photograph/Rick Scuteri
The Milwaukee Bucks turned the primary crew within the NBA to punch its ticket to the playoffs, defeating the Phoenix Suns 116-104 in a highway matchup at Footprint Heart on Tuesday.
Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo was his normal dominant self, recording 36 factors, 11 rebounds and eight assists within the victory. Brook Lopez added 21 factors and 10 rebounds, and three different gamers scored in double figures.
The Suns did their greatest to maintain issues shut, however the Bucks’ depth and defensive prowess had been on full show as they closed the sport on a 24-9 run.
Phoenix bought 30 factors from star taking pictures guard Devin Booker, however the crew shot 43.2 p.c from the sphere and dedicated 11 turnovers.
The Bucks seem like peaking on the proper time, and NBA Twitter was impressed by Tuesday’s displaying:
NBA TV @NBATV
With win No. 5️⃣0️⃣, the @Bucks are the primary crew to clinch a 2023 Playoffs spot! 🦌 pic.twitter.com/NQGzOUThx2
ESPN Stats & Data @ESPNStatsInfo
The Bucks are the primary crew to 50 wins for the sixth time of their historical past. Amongst these seasons, they solely received the title as soon as in 1970-71.
That is the third time they’re the primary to 50 wins underneath Mike Budenholzer. pic.twitter.com/0q2WDftNxv
Stephen Watson @SWatsonTV
Giannis has recorded his NBA-leading twenty eighth 30-point double-double.
Raheem Palmer @iamrahstradamus
Giannis and the Bucks are reminding me of Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs proper now. They really feel nearly inevitable and but we’re on the lookout for the explanation why anybody else can win.
Giannis with 20 factors, 9 rebounds and 5 assists on the half on 7/11 taking pictures.
Jamal Cristopher @JamCristopher
The mvp of the nationwide basketball affiliation is Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Nathan Marzion @nathanmarzion
No thought what’s going to occur within the playoffs, however I am assured in saying that is one of the best Bucks crew of my lifetime.
Badger Steve 🧀🍺🦌 @UW_Steve
I do not see how anyone is thrashing this Bucks crew in a playoff collection if we’re wholesome. We’re so deep. #FearTheDeer
Bucks Nation @MKEBucksNation
This Bucks protection is particular. Actually rattling close to an all time nice protection that’s not talked about sufficient.
Hoop Central @TheHoopCentral
The Bucks are the primary crew to have 50 wins this season.
21-2 over their final 23 video games. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/poIBUGk4VE
The Bucks seem like they’re on a mission to repeat the glory of their 2021 NBA championship, which they defeated the Suns to earn. Tuesday’s win was one more instance of a crew taking part in at its highest stage on the good time, because the playoffs are rapidly approaching.
When Milwaukee is clicking on all cylinders, the crew is a nightmare for opponents. The Bucks (50-19) will go for his or her third straight win once they return to motion on Thursday towards the Indiana Pacers (31-38).
