In a high-scoring showdown, Damian Lillard’s stellar performance and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s historic rebounding led the Milwaukee Bucks (19-7) to a 128-119 triumph over the Houston Rockets (13-10) on Sunday night.
In a game that snapped the Rockets’ five-game winning streak, Lillard stole the spotlight with a remarkable 39-point showcase. Chris Middleton contributed 20 points, with 14 coming in the crucial fourth quarter.
Antetokounmpo’s 26 points and 17 rebounds not only secured the Bucks’ 13th consecutive home win but also made him the franchise’s all-time rebounding leader, surpassing the legendary Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
Antetokounmpo’s exceptional rebounding performance allowed him to surpass Abdul-Jabbar’s record with 17,165 rebounds in his 11th season with Milwaukee.
Notably, he joins an elite group, including Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kevin Garnett, as players who have led a franchise in scoring, assists, and rebounds.
Despite the Rockets’ efforts, highlighted by Fred VanVleet’s 22 points and Alperen Sengun’s 20, the Bucks’ resilience and scoring prowess proved decisive.
Dillon Brooks’ ejection and two technical fouls on Rockets coach Ime Udoka added drama to the closing moments, with Lillard capitalizing on free throws to match his season-high scoring total.
