The Milwaukee Bucks emerged victorious in the NBA Cup on Tuesday, clinching a 97-81 victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the championship showdown. Despite their triumph in the league’s mid-season tournament, the Bucks opted out of the customary champagne celebration in the locker room post-game.
As per NBA insider Chris Haynes, Bucks coach Doc Rivers revealed that the team deliberately chose to forgo the champagne festivities and instead maintain their focus on the upcoming season.
Rivers arrived at this decision after consulting with assistant coach Darvin Ham, who steered the Los Angeles Lakers to NBA Cup victory last season. Although the Lakers secured the 2023 NBA Cup title by defeating the Indiana Pacers under Ham’s leadership, they were subsequently eliminated in the opening round of the 2024 postseason by the Denver Nuggets.
The Bucks’ star forward, Giannis Antetokounmpo, showcased his prowess with an impressive performance, amassing 26 points, 19 rebounds, and 10 assists. Antetokounmpo was honored with the NBA Cup MVP title for his stellar display and delivered an impassioned speech in the locker room, reminding his teammates of the $500,000 prize each of them had won alongside the NBA Cup championship.
Securing the NBA Cup title is undoubtedly a significant achievement for the Bucks. However, the franchise’s primary focus appears to be on clinching another NBA title later in the season.