Bucks celebrate 2021 NBA Championship, then handle Nets to open title defense

The Milwaukee Bucks claimed victory as the champs for the 2021 NBA Championship season and went ahead to seal their win with a showdown against the Nets. The two favourites contended for the Eastern Conference title in a game that saw Canadian betting apps throw in their best odds and betting markets. For most bettors, the game was among the most profitable matches in the 2021 NBA Championship season. Fans also got their fill of thrills and entertainment as Milwaukee rode the wave of celebration, landing skillful shots during the first half and putting up a great defence through the second half to secure a comfortable 127-104 victory over the Brooklyn Nets. 

Giannis Antetokounmpo lead the game for the bucks, scoring 32 points with 14 rebounds, and seven assists. Hot on his tail was Khris Middleton who added 20 points and nine boards to the score sheet. For Jrue Holiday, the match wasn’t as fulfilling. Holiday couldn’t witness the full potential of his team as he left late in the first half with a bruise at the heel and stayed off the court for the rest of the game. 

Jrue Holiday's absence opened the way for second-year Jordan Nwora who put forward 27 minutes and collected 15 points for the team. Kevin Durant did his best for the Nets finishing with 32 points and 11 rebounds, plus four assists, unfortunately, that didn't help the Brooklyn Nets secure a win. Newly signed Patty Mills also put up a decent performance with 21 points under his belt to help the Nets stay in the game until the very end. 

With so many familiar faces taking up spots in the 2021 Championship squad, the only real newcomer who got some real time on the court was Grayson Allen who scored 10 points in his 28-minute playtime.

George Hill made an appearance, however, his time on the court was not as eventful as the rest of the lot. Pat Connaughton, on the other hand, showed an ability that made him a force to reckon with – scoring 9 of 13 shots to land 20 points. Antetokounmpo didn't have any luck with his first three shots in the game but he was able to land a lucky wide open dunk thanks to Middleton's football pass. Antetokounmpo's first 3 points in the game and of the season gave Milwaukee an 18-8 lead over the Nets. Connaughton pushed the lead with another triple giving the Bucks a 21-8 advantage.

The Brooklyn Nets came close to five points with just 10:07 left in the first half, however, a triple from Nwora gave them the extra points they needed to maintain a comfortable lead. While the game went in the favour of the Bucks, it might not be the last time we will see a clash between these two heavyweights. Both are considered the top two in the conference and a rematch could go in favour of either team.

Photo: via pressone