On March 5, Beijing time, in the NBA regular season of the 2023-24 season, the Clippers and the Bucks launched a fierce matchup. Although the Clippers led by 15 points at one point, the Bucks, led by Damian Lillard, launched a strong comeback in the fourth quarter and eventually defeated the Clippers 113-106 to win six straight games, while the Clippers' winning streak came to an abrupt end.
In terms of stats, the Clippers' James Harden contributed 29 points, four rebounds and eight assists, Paul George and Kawhi Leonard had 29 and 16 points, respectively, while Ivica Zubac grabbed 11 rebounds. For the Bucks, Lillard scored 41 points on his own, while Portis and Beverley contributed 28 and 12 points, respectively, along with nine rebounds and four steals.
Background information shows that the Clippers are currently fourth in the West with a 39-20 record, while the Bucks are second in the East with a 40-21 record. It's worth mentioning that the Bucks' Antetokounmpo missed the game due to left Achilles tendonitis.
In game recap, the Clippers quickly took the lead after the game began, but with Lillard's magical play, the Bucks narrowed the deficit to three points at the end of the first quarter. In the second quarter, the Clippers continued to play efficiently, while the Bucks narrowed the gap to two points through excellent performances from Beverley and Lillard. In the second half, excellent play by Harden and George helped the Clippers lead 81-73 at the end of the third quarter.
However, in the crucial fourth quarter, the Bucks launched a counterattack, Lillard scored back-to-back points, and Portis and Beverley also contributed in key moments to help the Bucks take a 105-96 lead. In the final minutes, the two sides battled fiercely, but the Bucks established the victory with a small wave of 12-0.
Clippers starters: Harden, Leonard, George, Zubac, Mann Bucks starters: Lillard, Lopez, Beasley, Crowder, Beverley.
This game not only showcased the Bucks' tenacity and Lillard's courageous performance, but also proved that they are still capable of beating tough opponents without their brothers. Although the Clippers lost the game, the performances of Harden and George undoubtedly injected confidence into their next games.