Chicago Bulls fall to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Milwaukee Bucks in NBA Cup. 3 takeaways from the 126-110 loss.

Chicago Bulls Fall to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Milwaukee Bucks in NBA Cup

The Chicago Bulls were unable to contain Giannis Antetokounmpo, who scored 41 points and grabbed 15 rebounds to lead the Milwaukee Bucks to a 126-110 victory in an NBA Cup game on Friday.

1. Giannis Dominates with Physicality and Skill

The Bulls faced a tough challenge from Giannis, a 6-foot-11, 242-pound forward who moves through the paint with surprising agility and strength. Known for his ability to both dodge and power through defenders, Antetokounmpo is currently averaging 32.3 points per game through three games this season.

2. Bulls’ Defensive Strategy Tested

Chicago’s game plan focused heavily on physicality and disrupting the Bucks' attacks. The team excels at drawing charges, rotating defensively, and forcing opponents into difficult 3-point shots. This approach helped them stay atop the Eastern Conference so far.

3. Slowing, Not Stopping, Giannis

The Bulls understood that individual defense would not suffice against Giannis.

Slowing — not stopping — that kind of force would require deft traps, robust rotations, and endurance to withstand four quarters of bruising drives.

Despite the effort, Milwaukee’s star forward led the Bucks to a solid win, reinforcing their intent to defend the NBA Cup this fall.

Author’s Summary

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s unstoppable combination of power and agility proved decisive as the Bucks overcame Chicago’s tough defense to claim a significant NBA Cup victory.

Chicago Tribune — 2025-11-08