Damian Lillard’s late show was the key to the Milwaukee Bucks’ thrilling 101-100 win over the Houston Rockets. With just 3.9 seconds left, Lillard’s clutch basket secured the Damian Lillard Bucks Rockets win, completing a stunning comeback for the Bucks, who were trailing by six points with under two minutes remaining.
Lillard’s Late Heroics Propel Bucks Past Rockets in Thrilling Finish
The Rockets were in control late, holding a 100-94 lead with 1:59 left on the clock. But Lillard, who had missed the previous three games due to a concussion, proved his worth on the floor. He first sank two free throws, then assisted AJ Green’s three-pointer, and finally capped off the run with a driving lay-up to secure the win.
Lillard, who finished the game with 18 points and 10 assists, reflected on his return to action. “Normally when something is wrong with me, I feel like I can will myself through it, but this was probably one of the first times in my life and definitely in my NBA career where I was like ‘something is off’,” said Lillard. “It was a little frustrating. I just didn’t like not being with the team.”
Despite Lillard’s struggles with his health, the Bucks benefited from strong performances from Brook Lopez and Giannis Antetokounmpo, who added 27 and 20 points, respectively. The win snapped a five-game winning streak for the Rockets, who were led by Fred VanVleet’s 26 points and Jalen Green’s 21 points. Houston, who had trailed by 14 points at one point, couldn’t withstand Milwaukee’s late surge.
Bucks Capitalize on Lillard’s Clutch Play to Defeat Rockets 101-100
This game highlighted Lillard’s ability to come through in the clutch, even when not feeling 100%. His performance, especially in the final moments, is a testament to his leadership and resilience, qualities that make him a crucial asset for the Bucks as they look to make a deep playoff run.
On the other hand, the Rockets showed signs of a promising young team, with VanVleet and Green continuing to lead the charge. However, the Rockets’ defeat exposed their inability to close out games in crucial moments, a lesson they will need to address moving forward.
As the Bucks move up in the standings, the Rockets will have to regroup after this loss. Milwaukee’s victory sees them improving their position in the Eastern Conference, while Houston remains in the top half of the Western standings.
- External Link: BBC Sport
- Internal Link: Eurasia Sports
