Charlotte HornetsOpen full analysis
Milwaukee BucksOpen full analysis
The Milwaukee Bucks edged the Charlotte Hornets 122–121 on January 2 at Fiserv Forum in a one-point thriller that fell short of the Vegas total of 233.5. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 30 points, supported by R. Rollins's 29 points as Milwaukee shot 51.7 percent from the field and connected on 16 three-pointers. Charlotte's K. Knueppel (26 points) and M. Bridges (25 points) kept the Hornets close despite a sluggish second quarter in which they managed just 22 points; the visitors hit 18 threes on 48.8 percent shooting and out-rebounded Milwaukee 39–36. The Bucks' third quarter proved decisive, outscoring Charlotte 36–31 in that frame to seize control. Milwaukee's offensive rating of 124.6 paired with a defensive rating of 120.6 reflected a balanced performance, while Charlotte's 14 turnovers versus Milwaukee's 11 proved costly in the final possession. The Bucks' one-point victory keeps them competitive in the Eastern Conference, while Charlotte's loss underscores their need for consistency in crunch situations.
