Giannis Antetokounmpo, known as the “Nigerian Freak,” delivered an outstanding performance, securing a triple-double and the MVP title as the Milwaukee Bucks triumphed over the Oklahoma City Thunder to win the 2024 NBA Cup. The Bucks clinched the victory with a score of 97-81 in Las Vegas.
Antetokounmpo’s remarkable stats included 26 points, 19 rebounds, and 10 assists. Damian Lillard also shone, contributing 23 points and making five three-pointers. The game was tightly contested in the first half, with Milwaukee leading 51-50 at halftime. The Bucks’ superior three-point shooting proved crucial, with Lillard and Gary Trent Jr. making significant contributions from beyond the arc.
The Thunder struggled with their shooting, managing only 33.7% overall and 15.6% from long range. Despite this, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the scoring for Oklahoma City with 21 points, followed by Jalen Williams with 18 points and Isaiah Hartenstein with 16 points and 12 rebounds.
The victory means Milwaukee players will receive over $500,000 each, while Oklahoma City players will get around $200,000. The Bucks’ head coach, Darvin Ham, maintained an undefeated record in the tournament, adding to the team’s success.