Bucks Rally to Top Hornets 123-113
The Milwaukee Bucks recovered after a tough start and pulled away late to defeat the Charlotte Hornets 123-113 on Monday night, extending momentum with a strong performance from their bench and a steady command from their starters. The win marked back-to-back victories for Milwaukee, fueled by an efficient offensive night and disciplined defense at crucial moments.
Portis Leads the Charge Off the Bench
Bobby Portis was the standout figure for the Bucks, delivering 25 points on 8-for-12 shooting while coming off the bench. His scoring punch provided a spark that buckled the game into Milwaukee’s favor during a decisive stretch. Portis also contributed energy on the glass and in the pick-and-roll, spacing the floor and keeping the Hornets from settling into a rhythm late in the contest.
Giannis Antetokounmpo Adds a Balanced 24
Giannis Antetokounmpo supplied a balanced line with 24 points and seven assists, helping orchestrate the Bucks’ offense and creating mismatches for Charlotte with his size and speed. His playmaking helped Milwaukee sustain offensive pressure through stretches when the Hornets tried to climb back into the game. The Greek forward demonstrated his usual versatility, driving to the basket, mid-range pull-ups, and timely passes that kept the Bucks ahead in key moments.
Offensive Execution and Defensive Focus
Milwaukee’s offense clicked in phases, with efficient ball movement and timely scoring from its supporting cast. The Bucks benefited from a mix of inside buckets and outside shooting, balancing the attack as Charlotte attempted to chase from behind. On the defensive end, Milwaukee slowed Charlotte’s second-chance opportunities and closed out possessions with disciplined rotations, limiting second-chance points and capitalizing on turnovers when they could.
Hornets Try to Climb Back
Charlotte showed fight throughout the night, fighting to keep pace with the visitors. Despite a late push, the Hornets couldn’t sustain the necessary defensive stops or consistent scoring to erase Milwaukee’s lead. The effort highlighted the team’s potential when pace and precision align, though the result remained a setback in the standings as the clock wound down.
What It Means Moving Forward
The Bucks used this matchup to demonstrate depth and resilience, relying on bench scoring and veteran leadership to maintain a lead when the Hornets pressed. For Milwaukee, the win reinforces the momentum needed during a busy stretch, while for Charlotte, it serves as a reminder of the areas to tighten—particularly shot selection, defensive rebounding, and finishing at the rim in crunch time.
Key Stats Snapshot
– Portis: 25 points off the bench on 8-of-12 shooting
– Giannis: 24 points, 7 assists
– Final score: Bucks 123, Hornets 113
– Team benches: Milwaukee leveraged its depth to maintain momentum in the fourth quarter
Bottom Line
Milwaukee controlled the pace when it mattered most, turning a competitive game into a double-digit lead late in the fourth. Portis’s offensive pop and Giannis’s all-around impact were the driving forces, complemented by solid contributions from role players. Charlotte will look to translate competitive stretches into sustained success in upcoming games.
