Zion Williamson’s assertive play in the final minutes, combined with CJ McCollum’s scoring, propelled the New Orleans Pelicans (45-28) to a hard-fought 107-100 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks (46-27).
Williamson’s 28-point performance, coupled with McCollum’s 25 points, proved decisive as the Pelicans managed to hold off a late surge from the Bucks.
Despite Milwaukee’s efforts, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 35 points, including 20 straight points in the third quarter, and 14 rebounds, Williamson’s clutch free-throw shooting secured the win for New Orleans.
McCollum’s scoring, alongside Jonas Valanciunas’ double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds, provided crucial contributions for the Pelicans in a game marked by intense competition. Trey Murphy III also added a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds.
Damian Lillard and Malik Beasley contributed 20 points each for Milwaukee.
With this win, New Orleans strengthens its position in the playoff race, remaining within striking distance from the fourth-placed Los Angeles Clippers.
Meanwhile, the Bucks, despite the loss, stay in the second place in the Eastern Conference. Milwaukee, 11 games behind the conference leading Boston Celtics, cannot climb to the first place.
