Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers praised his team’s perseverance after their 113-109 comeback victory over the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday, despite losing Giannis Antetokounmpo three minutes into the game.
Rivers described the Bucks’ response as a testament to their character, noting they fought back from an 18-point deficit early in the second quarter. “It just shows a lot about this team,” he said, highlighting the adjustments made with multiple lineups and extended zone defense.
Jericho Sims’ career-high 15 points and 14 rebounds were a key factor, with Rivers calling his late-game contributions “huge” in Giannis’ absence and emphasizing the importance of having a reliable roller on the floor.
The coach praised the backcourt duo of Kevin Porter Jr. and Ryan Rollins, who scored 26 and 22 points respectively. “It’s a combination… one could go for a little while, then give it to the other guy,” Rivers said, referencing their coordinated offensive efforts.
Rivers also noted the effectiveness of Ryan Rollins’ defense against Cade Cunningham, which helped slow Detroit’s early momentum. “It was very effective all game,” Rivers said, crediting both Rollins and Porter for applying pressure while the team navigated a new zone strategy.
Despite the Pistons jumping to a 27-9 first-quarter lead, the Bucks gradually closed the gap, eventually overtaking Detroit late in the fourth quarter. Sims’ three-point play with 1:34 left gave Milwaukee a 109-108 edge, followed by free throws from Rollins and AJ Green sealing the win.
Rivers addressed concerns about Giannis’ injury, explaining the two-time MVP experienced a right calf strain but likely avoided an Achilles issue. “I thought the bump threw him off balance,” Rivers said, clarifying the nature of the injury. Giannis underwent an MRI after the game to determine the extent of the strain.
The coach also lauded AJ Green’s and Bobby Portis’ contributions, particularly in high-pressure moments. “AJ made tough shots… and Bobby’s energy, even when he couldn’t score, set the tone for minutes played,” Rivers explained, emphasizing the team’s reliance on defensive intensity to drive their comeback.
Milwaukee improved to two wins in three games, with Porter, Rollins, and Green leading the scoring while Sims’ inside presence proved pivotal. Detroit, which led 15 of their previous 17 games, fell short despite strong performances from Tobias Harris (20 points) and Cade Cunningham (17 points).
The Bucks aim to continue their momentum against the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday, potentially without Giannis, while Rivers emphasized the team’s ongoing search for consistent success amid injury challenges.
