The Milwaukee Bucks suffered a frustrating 125-108 loss to the Golden State Warriors, but what stood out most wasn’t just the defeat—it was how the Warriors dictated where the Bucks could score. In a game where perimeter shooting has become the NBA’s defining trait, Milwaukee’s three-point attempts plummeted, a direct result of Golden State’s defensive strategy.
“They wanted us to live in the mid-range,” Bucks guard Damian Lillard admitted postgame. “We weren’t getting the looks we normally do from deep.”
The numbers tell the story: Milwaukee attempted just 24 shots from beyond the arc, a staggering drop from their season average of 38.5. Meanwhile, they took a season-high 56 shots inside the arc, with the Warriors’ defensive scheme steering them away from their preferred spots.
Golden State’s approach was clear from the opening tip. By aggressively closing out on shooters like Lillard, Khris Middleton, and Malik Beasley while packing the paint against Giannis Antetokounmpo, they effectively cut off Milwaukee’s rhythm from deep. The result? The Bucks had to settle for mid-range jumpers and contested twos—exactly what the Warriors wanted.
For a team that thrives on three-point shooting, the Bucks’ inability to adapt proved costly. Despite Giannis putting up 29 points and Lillard adding 22, their lack of outside firepower allowed the Warriors to control the pace and capitalize on transition opportunities.
Head coach Doc Rivers acknowledged the challenge but remained optimistic. “We have to recognize what teams are trying to do to us and adjust. We didn’t move the ball well enough to generate good looks from three.”
The loss highlights a growing concern for Milwaukee as they approach the postseason. Teams are starting to key in on their outside attack, and if the Bucks can’t counter defensive schemes like Golden State’s, their championship aspirations may take a serious hit.
As the Bucks prepare for their next matchup, expect adjustments—because in today’s NBA, the three-point shot isn’t just a weapon, it’s a necessity.
Leave a Reply