News Summary
The Milwaukee Bucks improved to 2-0 after defeating the Toronto Raptors 122-116 in their home opener. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 31 points, 20 rebounds, and 7 assists. Despite 19 turnovers, the Bucks managed to secure the win through strong defensive adjustments and effective rebounding, showcasing resilience even with injury concerns. Key contributions came from other players including Gary Trent Jr. and Cole Anthony as the Bucks demonstrated their depth and competitive spirit in this tense matchup.
Toronto
The Milwaukee Bucks improved their record to 2-0 with a victory over the Toronto Raptors, winning the game 122-116 on October 24 at Scotiabank Arena, which marked the Raptors’ home opener. Leading the way for the Bucks was Giannis Antetokounmpo, who topped all players with 31 points, 20 rebounds, and 7 assists.
Important contributions came from Bucks guard Gary Trent Jr., who scored 20 points and made a crucial three-pointer that helped push the Bucks ahead 118-111 late in the contest. Other notable performances included Cole Anthony scoring 23 points off the bench, Ryan Rollins contributing 13 points, and Bobby Portis Jr. adding 11 points. The Bucks demonstrated resilience by overcoming 19 turnovers, resulting in 16 points for the Raptors from those mistakes. However, the Bucks tightened their focus in the fourth quarter, limiting themselves to only three turnovers while forcing six from Toronto.
Coach Rivers attributed the team’s success to improved execution, effective rebounding, and better management of turnovers. Antetokounmpo was particularly impactful, achieving 7 offensive rebounds during the game. His performance marked his seventh career game recording at least 30 points, 20 rebounds, and 5 assists, enabling him to tie Nikola Jokić of Denver for the most such games among active players. In fact, he ranks eighth in NBA history for career games with at least 30 points, 20 rebounds, and 7 assists.
Performance and Statistics
Antetokounmpo showcased stellar shooting, finishing the game with a field goal percentage of 78.6% by making 11 of 14 attempts, including 2 of 2 from beyond the arc and hitting 7 of 12 free throws. This impressive shooting effort adds to his legacy, as he now has 54 career games with a shooting percentage of at least 70% while scoring at least 30 points, ranking him sixth in NBA history.
The Bucks dealt with injury concerns going into the game, specifically with Kevin Porter Jr. absent due to a sprained left ankle, and Giannis appearing on the injury report with a sprained left big toe. The game time was adjusted to 5:30 p.m. CT to accommodate fans wishing to watch Game 1 of the World Series.
Game Context and Rivalry
The Raptors faced challenges in their shooting, particularly from three-point range, converting only 6 of 25 attempts for a 24% success rate. While they initially found success scoring in the paint, they struggled during the fourth quarter due to defensive adjustments made by the Bucks. An added layer of competition unfolded as Raptors forward Scottie Barnes became involved in a taunting incident with Antetokounmpo during the game.
Toronto’s roster was also impacted by injuries, with rookie Collin Murray-Boyles and Ja’Kobe Walter both listed as questionable heading into the matchup. The game was showcased locally on FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin, marking an exciting start to the season for both teams.
As the Bucks continue their early-season momentum, Antetokounmpo’s performance has drawn high praise from teammates and opponents alike, reinforcing his reputation as one of the elite players in the league today.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Celebrating Milwaukee: A Personal List of Favorites
Giannis Antetokounmpo Aims to End Career in Greece
Giannis Antetokounmpo Returns to Bucks Practice Amid Recovery
Milwaukee’s Healthcare and Tech Developments
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Future With the Bucks in Doubt
NBA Free Agency Landscape Shifts for Upcoming Seasons
Additional Resources
- SI: Raptors Injury Report
- Journal Sentinel: Bucks vs Raptors Game Info
- Brew Hoop: Game Preview Bucks vs Raptors
- ESPN: Bucks vs Raptors Game Recap
- Bleacher Report: Game Highlights
- Wikipedia: Toronto Raptors
- Google Search: Milwaukee Bucks
- Google Scholar: Giannis Antetokounmpo
- Encyclopedia Britannica: NBA
- Google News: Toronto Raptors
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
