The Utah Jazz orchestrated a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback to secure a 123-108 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks at the Delta Center. The game, characterized by substantial runs from both teams, witnessed the Jazz overcoming a 19-point deficit.
Breaking a three-game losing streak, the Jazz initiated a pivotal 16-0 run at the beginning of the fourth quarter, extending it to an impressive 21-3 streak. The Bucks, playing the second night of a back-to-back, struggled to counter the Jazz’s resurgence.
Lauri Markkanen’s three-pointer marked the culmination of the Jazz’s remarkable run, giving them a 104-102 lead with 6 minutes and 23 seconds remaining. Although a basket from Giannis Antetokounmpo briefly swung the lead back in favor of the Bucks at 105-104, the Jazz maintained the momentum.
In the final 5:37, Utah dominated the Bucks by outscoring them 18-3. The Bucks faced shooting woes in the fourth quarter, managing only 4 of 17 from the floor.
Bucks guard Malik Beasley acknowledged the team’s decent offensive and defensive efforts but emphasized the need to convert crucial shots. Despite facing a back-to-back scenario in Utah, Beasley expressed confidence that a few made shots could have altered the outcome.
The Bucks, with a 33-17 record, had initially established a commanding lead in the first half, reaching a 19-point advantage. A 14-0 run to start the second quarter, extended to 19-2, showcased the Bucks’ dominance. However, the Jazz resiliently fought back, and the Bucks struggled to maintain their early intensity.
Bucks head coach Doc Rivers acknowledged the quality of shots the team had but noted the unfortunate trend of shots hitting the front rim. He suggested that utilizing the post more might have been effective, but the Jazz’s defensive strategy, including potential double-teams, posed challenges.
Despite the loss, the Bucks, under Rivers, have displayed a positive trajectory. The team won their first game with Rivers as head coach in Dallas but faced challenges on the road trip. However, the players are optimistic, emphasizing the development of a defensive identity and improved offensive opportunities.