Cam Thomas scores 45, but Nets fall to Giannis’ Bucks

The Brooklyn Nets displayed determination, yet the Milwaukee Bucks emerged victorious, thanks to the undeniable presence of Giannis Antetokounmpo.

In the game at Barclays Center on Monday night, the Nets fell short with a 129-125 loss to the Bucks, and it wasn’t solely due to the Greek Freak’s offensive prowess but also his crucial defensive contributions.

In the closing minutes, amidst five tie scores, Antetokounmpo (with 36 points and 12 rebounds) not only executed a decisive dunk for the Bucks’ lead but also delivered crucial defensive plays to secure it.

He blocked Dorian Finney-Smith with 28 seconds remaining and, with just 15 seconds on the clock, successfully defended against the red-hot Cam Thomas.

“We just missed the shots, honestly. It just comes down to making shots at the end,” said Thomas, who had a game-high 45 points squandered by Brooklyn.

“Doe went down and missed the layup, could’ve tied the game up. But … we got [another] chance to tie. … I went to the hoop, tried to get fouled or just a bucket and Giannis contested it.”