NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith sounds off on the Milwaukee Bucks in light of their Game One loss against the Phoenix Suns.
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The Phoenix Suns defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 118-105 in Game One of the NBA Finals. The backcourt of the Suns consisting of Devin Booker and Chris Paul combined for 54-points.
Giannis Antetokounmpo made his return to the lineup after missing the last 2 games of the ECF due to a hyperextended knee. The Greek Freak was impressive coming off an injury, scoring a double-double in Game One that included 20-points and 17 rebounds.
However, the 2x NBA MVP continues to struggle from the free-throw line. Khris Middleton had an impressive night, scoring 29-points and shooting 41.1% from beyond the arc.
Nevertheless, the supporting cast of the Bucks had a poor performance and lacked intensity. Jrue Holiday had a disappointing performance, followed by minimal contributions by Bobby Portis, Pat Connaughton.
While, the Suns had the likes of Deandre Ayton, Cameron Payne, and Mikal Bridges chipping in during the crucial moments of the game.
Phoenix Suns win Game 1 of the NBA Finals vs Milwaukee Bucks in a dominant fashion
The Suns shot 46.6% from the field and an incredible 96.2% from the free-throw line. While the Bucks shot 45.5% from the field and a dismal 56.3% from the free-throw line.
Veteran point guard Chris Paul ignited during the 3rd quarter, scoring 16-points. Paul was 6-for-7 from the field and made all his 3-pointers.
Paul had this to say post his Game One win against the Bucks, “We’ve been building all season long for these moments, We’re going to keep playing. This is just one game. We’ve got to stay locked in.”
Suns’ center Deandre Ayton had 22-points and 19 rebounds and shot a remarkable 80% from the field.
While breaking down the Suns’ performance in Game One, ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith didn’t shy away from calling out the Bucks for their poor performance.
“It is mind-boggling to me how clueless the Bucks appeared to be! I don’t want to be insulting, but absolutely clueless the Milwaukee Bucks appeared last night in being prepared for this game.”
Game Two of the NBA Finals takes place on Thursday at the Phoenix Suns arena. It will be interesting to see whether the Bucks can bounce back with Giannis getting 2 days to rest coming off an injury, or will the Suns prevail once again.
