Thunder Trample Bucks in Milwaukee
At Fiserv Forum, the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 121-105 on March 16th, 2025. The Thunder had already defeated the Bucks 125-96 on February 3rd; this victory was their second over them this season. With the Bucks ahead 26–24 at the end of the first quarter, the game got off to a close start. Damian Lillard contributed seven points, Gary Trent Jr. also having five off the bench. Giannis Antetokounmpo had four points, three assists, two rebounds. For the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander kept the team competitive with six points and four assists, Isaiah Hartenstein contributed six points.
The Thunder dominated the second quarter, outscoring the Bucks 29-15 and had a 53-41 lead into halftime. Isaiah Joe, Chet Holmgren, and Hartenstein scored significantly by showing their dominance with their scoring and rebounds, not giving Bucks much of a chance to score. Shai showed his great play making skills providing great offense. Oklahoma's great defense limited Milwaukee's ability to score this quarter.
OKC kept their lead going in the third quarter. Scoring 39 points to Milwaukee’s 33, resulting in a 92-74 lead going into the fourth quarter. Shai continued to display his offensive skills, with the defense also staying effective against the Bucks. Holmgren and Joe contributed a lot as well by keeping up the efficient scoring and rebound presence, helping the team keep their energy up against Milwaukee, keeping them at bay.
The Bucks attempted to come back in the fourth quarter, out scoring the Thunder 31-29. Although the Bucks had the lead, the Thunder's earlier dominance secured them a 121-105 win. Shai ended with 31 points and eight assists, Giannis finished with a triple double as well scoring 21 points as well as grabbing 12 rebounds and dishing out 10 assists.
With this win, the Thunder's record rose to 56-12, securing their top spot in the Western Conference. The Bucks, who are currently 38-29 are still in second place in the Central Division and fourth in the Eastern Conference. Milwaukee will have to get back together if they want to continue playing in the playoffs. In order to make the required changes as the season goes on, both clubs will evaluate this game.
