Imagine a basketball game so intense that it leaves fans on the edge of their seats until the very last second. That’s exactly what happened when the Milwaukee Bucks battled the New Orleans Pelicans in a thrilling overtime showdown, ultimately securing a 141-137 victory. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite Trey Murphy III’s jaw-dropping 44-point performance, including a staggering 12 three-pointers that tied for the fifth-most in NBA history, the Bucks found a way to prevail. And this is the part most people miss—Milwaukee’s resilience, even without their two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, who’s been sidelined since January 23 with a calf strain and was the subject of swirling trade rumors as the deadline loomed.
Ryan Rollins led the charge for the Bucks with 27 points, while Kevin Porter Jr. returned from a six-game absence to chip in 18 points, nine assists, and six rebounds. The Pelicans’ Zion Williamson and Saddiq Bey each contributed 20 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Milwaukee’s clutch plays in overtime. The Bucks sealed the deal with a 5-0 run to start the extra period, highlighted by Rollins’ driving layup and Myles Turner’s crucial three-pointer.
Here’s the bold truth: this game was a masterclass in three-point shooting, with both teams combining for 45 made threes out of 93 attempts. New Orleans hit 24 of their 46 tries, while Milwaukee connected on 21 of 47, shooting a season-best 60.9% from the field overall. Yet, it was the Bucks’ ability to execute under pressure that made the difference.
One of the most debated moments came in the final seconds of regulation. Myles Turner appeared to hit a game-winning three-pointer, but a replay review revealed his left heel was out of bounds, nullifying the shot. In overtime, with the Pelicans trailing 139-137, Zion Williamson was called for an offensive foul just before Bey’s potential go-ahead three-pointer, sparking heated discussions among fans and analysts alike.
This win marked the Bucks’ second consecutive victory after snapping a five-game losing streak, though they’ve yet to string together more than two wins this season. Meanwhile, the Pelicans were left to ponder what could have been after Murphy’s historic night.
Now, here’s the question that’ll spark debate: Was this game a testament to the Bucks’ depth and resilience, or did the Pelicans simply let one slip away? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. And while you’re at it, subscribe to our YouTube channel for more heart-pounding sports coverage.
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