Damian Lillard leads Bucks to victory over Heat with stunning performance
- Damian Lillard scored 37 points and made 12 assists in the game.
- The Bucks overcame a 22-point second-half lead to win, improving their record to 3-0 in Cup play.
- Miami Heat struggled from three-point range and fell to a 1-2 record in Cup play.
On November 26, 2024, the Milwaukee Bucks secured a narrow 106-103 victory against the Miami Heat during an NBA Cup game held in Miami, Florida. The Bucks, playing without key star Giannis Antetokounmpo due to swelling in his knee, showcased a strong performance led by Damian Lillard. Lillard finished the game with an impressive tally of 37 points and 12 assists, marking his 30th game in which he scored 35 or more points and registered 10 or more assists in his career, tying him with Allen Iverson for the ninth-most such games in NBA history. Despite the game being heavily contested, the Bucks initially built a comfortable 22-point second-half lead, which they almost relinquished. The Heat, however, managed to tie the game multiple times but never took the lead, ultimately falling short. Jimmy Butler led the Heat with 23 points, and the team struggled significantly from the three-point range, getting outscored 60-30 in that area. The Bucks' victory improved their record in the NBA Cup to 3-0, placing them half a game ahead of the Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Group B standings, while the Heat's record fell to 1-2 in Cup play. A key moment in the game was AJ Green's back-to-back three-pointers late in the fourth quarter, which helped the Bucks maintain their narrow lead. The Heat had a chance to equalize or take the lead but could not capitalize on their scoring opportunities. This game highlighted both teams' trajectories; while the Bucks celebrated their fifth consecutive win and climbed back to a .500 record (9-9 overall), the Heat faced challenges that raised concerns about their consistency this season, particularly given the significant deficits they have faced in recent home games. The win for Milwaukee not only demonstrated Lillard's vital role in the team's success but also emphasized the Bucks' resilience in the absence of Antetokounmpo. With the spotlight now on Milwaukee's upcoming games, particularly their next match against the Washington Wizards, the Bucks are poised to make a statement in the league as they aim to build momentum and improve their standings ahead of the playoffs.