NBA Rockets defeat Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bucks

Alperen Sengun leads Houston Rockets to victory over Milwaukee Bucks despite Giannis Antetokounmpo's 48 points. Antetokounmpo calls for improvement.

The Houston Rockets secured a 112-108 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, with Alperen Sengun leading the charge with 21 points. Despite Giannis Antetokounmpo's impressive 48-point performance and 17 rebounds, the Bucks suffered their third loss in four games in 2024, following an 11-2 record in December.

Antetokounmpo expressed the need for improvement across the board, emphasizing the necessity for better play, defense, trust, coaching, and overall performance from everyone involved with the team. Jalen Green contributed 16 points for Houston, while Fred VanVleet and Jabari Smith Jr. added 14 points each.

The Rockets maintained a 16-point lead entering the fourth quarter, with Damian Lillard struggling with his shooting but still managing to contribute 18 points and nine assists. Despite their efforts to rally, the Bucks fell short, with Khris Middleton adding 10 points on a 3-of-9 shooting performance.

Veteran Rockets reserve Jeff Green recorded a season-high 16 points, with Cam Whitmore and Aaron Holiday adding 12 and 11 points off the bench, respectively. Houston's bench outscored Milwaukee's 43-22, contributing significantly to their victory.

The Rockets' strong defensive effort limited the Bucks, allowing them to secure the win despite Antetokounmpo's standout performance. Rockets coach Ime Udoka acknowledged the challenge of guarding Antetokounmpo and the team's strategy of containing him while focusing on limiting the impact of other players.

The Rockets closed out a seven-game homestand with a 3-4 record and are now set to face six consecutive road games against Eastern Conference opponents.