Damian Lillard: We came correct, prepared, familiar

Dec 15, 2024 4:16 PM

The Milwaukee Bucks entered Saturday’s NBA Cup semifinals fueled by the sting of last year’s setback, as described by Jamal Collier of ESPN.

In the previous season’s inaugural in-season tournament, Milwaukee was heavily favored to reach the championship game but was derailed by a surprising Indiana Pacers team.

That loss left a bitter taste, motivating the Bucks to approach this year’s tournament with renewed focus and determination.

“We probably looked a little sharper this time around,” said Damian Lillard, who spearheaded Milwaukee’s effort with 25 points and seven assists in their victory over the Atlanta Hawks. “

This time we came into it remembering our last experience. We came correct. We knew it wasn’t going to be easy playing against a good team, but we prepared, and it just felt familiar.”

Lillard’s comments reflect the Bucks’ shift in mentality and preparation, which have paid dividends during a season of ups and downs. After starting the year with a dismal 2-8 record that led to speculation about potential roster overhauls, the team has steadily clawed its way back into contention.

Saturday’s win marked their third straight victory, improving their record to 14-11 and putting them just two games shy of third place in the Eastern Conference standings.

Head coach Doc Rivers has played a pivotal role in the Bucks’ resurgence, consistently reinforcing the team’s potential to achieve greatness, including winning the NBA Cup.

According to Collier, Rivers has been emphasizing the importance of embracing the competitive nature of the tournament and treating each game as an opportunity to grow.

“It’s a competition, man, and you want your team to be competitive,” Rivers said, highlighting his philosophy. “You want them to accept the challenge, that’s all I’ve been talking about. … That’s what I’m proud of for our guys.”

Milwaukee’s performance against Atlanta showcased not only their growth but also their hunger to prove themselves on a bigger stage.

Despite the early-season struggles, the Bucks have turned their focus to achieving their potential as a cohesive unit. Players like Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo have stepped up in key moments, demonstrating why this team is built to contend when it matters most.