Giannis Antetokounmpo powered the Milwaukee Bucks (2-0) past the Toronto Raptors (1-1) 122-116 on Friday night, recording 31 points and 20 rebounds.
The game was tied at 86 after three quarters, but the Bucks outscored Toronto 36-30 in the fourth, fueled by Cole Anthony, who scored nine of his 23 points in the final period.
Antetokounmpo, who scored 37 in Milwaukee’s opener, overwhelmed the Raptors in the paint, making 11 of 14 shots while attempting only two outside the area. Gary Trent Jr. added 20 points, complementing the superstar’s inside dominance.
Toronto received strong performances from Brandon Ingram, who scored 29 in his home debut, and RJ Barrett, who added 20 points. Scottie Barnes contributed 17 points and five assists, keeping the Raptors in contention.
The Bucks faced a setback when Kyle Kuzma left early in the fourth quarter with a sprained left ankle and did not return. Despite his absence, Milwaukee maintained momentum with Antetokounmpo and Anthony leading the charge.
Milwaukee’s bench also made key contributions, with Ryan Rollins scoring 13 points and AJ Green adding nine points, helping the Bucks sustain their lead late in the fourth quarter.
Defensively, the Bucks limited Toronto’s efficiency despite the Raptors shooting 49.4% overall and 40.7% from three-point range. Antetokounmpo’s presence on both ends of the floor frustrated Toronto, forcing turnovers and controlling the boards.
The win gives Milwaukee its second straight victory to start the season, and the team will now face the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday night. Toronto, meanwhile, looks to rebound as it travels to Dallas in the next round.
