In an exciting game marked by significant runs from both teams, the Utah Jazz staged an impressive fourth-quarter comeback, rallying from a 19-point deficit to secure a 123-108 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks at the Delta Center on Sunday night.
The Jazz ended a three-game losing streak with a remarkable 16-0 run at the beginning of the final quarter, extending it to 21-3. A pivotal moment during the run was Lauri Markkanen’s three-pointer, propelling Utah to a 104-102 lead with 6 minutes and 23 seconds remaining in the game. Despite a brief resurgence by the Bucks, the Jazz maintained their momentum, outscoring their opponents 18-3 in the last 5 minutes and 37 seconds of the game. Milwaukee struggled in the fourth quarter, managing only 4 out of 17 from the floor.
Acknowledging the challenging altitude conditions of the Rocky Mountains, Bucks head coach Doc Rivers expressed a positive sentiment in the locker room, emphasizing defensive improvements and enhanced shot opportunities on offense. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard played through injuries, with Lillard notably affected by a sprained left ankle.
Malik Beasley displayed solidarity with Antetokounmpo, responding to a collision with Collin Sexton by giving Sexton a firm shoulder and receiving a technical foul. Despite the loss, Antetokounmpo remained optimistic about the team’s direction.
In a game with a short bench, AJ Green made a notable impact for the Bucks against the Jazz. Green, securing a guaranteed contract this season, scored 10 points in 11 minutes, showcasing his shooting prowess. Rivers praised Green’s toughness and defensive contributions, hinting at potential opportunities for young players in the team’s rotation.
Khris Middleton sat out due to right knee injury management, and Brook Lopez remained sidelined for personal reasons. The Bucks have recently added assistant coach Pete Dominguez to their coaching staff, focusing on video duties, player development, and coaching responsibilities.
Overall, the Bucks are determined to establish a defensive identity and adjust offensive strategies to enhance their performance amid a demanding schedule.
