The Oklahoma City Thunder faced a tough challenge on December 18, 2024, as they battled the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA Cup championship game held in Las Vegas. Unfortunately for Thunder fans, the game ended in a disappointing 97-81 loss. Let’s dive into what happened during this important match and the impact it will have on the season.
Thunder’s Struggles on Offense
The Thunder came into this game with high hopes but struggled to find their rhythm. They managed only 33.7% shooting from the field. This statistic shows just how difficult it was for them to score. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander did his best, leading the team with 21 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Bucks’ defense.
Giannis Shines with a Triple-Double
On the other hand, Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered an impressive show. He recorded a triple-double with amazing stats: 26 points, 19 rebounds, and 10 assists. His contributions were vital for the Bucks, pushing them over the finish line and earning him the MVP title for the game.
Three-Point Challenge
One of the most noticeable differences in the game was three-point shooting. The Bucks outscored the Thunder significantly in this area, making 51 points from beyond the arc. In contrast, the Thunder only managed to net 15 points from three-pointers, which really hurt their chances of winning.
The Bucks’ Turnaround
It’s important to note that the Bucks have turned things around from their slow start this season. After beginning with a record of 1-6, they won this championship game and improved their overall record to 14-11. It seems they’ve really found their groove at just the right time.
Player Bonuses and Future Prospects
After the game, the Bucks celebrated not only their victory but also the financial bonuses that come with it. Each player from the team will receive about $515,000. Meanwhile, Thunder players will take home about $216,000 for their efforts as runners-up. This difference in bonuses shows just how significant this win was for the Bucks.
The Game Summary in Numbers
| Team | Points | Three-Pointers | Leading Scorer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee Bucks | 97 | 51 | Giannis Antetokounmpo (26) |
| Oklahoma City Thunder | 81 | 15 | Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (21) |
Looking Ahead for the Thunder
For the Thunder, this loss is a tough pill to swallow. It raises questions about how they will perform for the rest of the season. As they prepare for upcoming games, the team will need to work on their shooting and defense if they hope to bounce back. Fans remain hopeful that the Thunder can learn from this defeat and come back stronger in their next challenges.
