### Milwaukee Bucks Secure Back-to-Back Wins for the First Time Since October The Milwaukee Bucks have achieved a significant milestone by winning consecutive games for the first time since late October, defeating the Charlotte Hornets 123-113. This victory comes after a challenging period for the team, which included an eight-game absence for star player Giannis Antetokounmpo due to a calf strain. In this latest game, Bobby Portis led the Bucks with 25 points off the bench, while Antetokounmpo contributed 24 points and seven assists, showcasing his return to form. The Hornets, despite strong performances from Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball, were unable to secure their first three-game win streak of the season, falling short against the Bucks [https://apnews.com/article/bucks-hornets-score-0ee77910bc035df7fd4ba1e67a8394ae][https://madison.com/sports/professional/nba/bucks/article_10c00a31-6d92-47f5-928c-73aa3371c800.html]. ### Breakdown of the Bucks' Recent Performance 1. **Game Overview**: - The Bucks defeated the Hornets 123-113, marking their first back-to-back wins since October. - Key players included Bobby Portis (25 points), Giannis Antetokounmpo (24 points, 7 assists), and Myles Turner (23 points) [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/bucks_top_hornets_earn_first_back_to_back_wins_since_october/s1_17045_43263083]. 2. **Antetokounmpo's Return**: - Giannis returned from an eight-game injury layoff, previously scoring 29 points against the Chicago Bulls in his comeback game [https://apnews.com/article/bucks-bulls-score-antetokounmpo-1089d6cb22e1f5540b34f8c33e463f57]. - His performance against the Bulls was pivotal in ending Chicago's five-game winning streak [https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/47426586/sources-giannis-antetokounmpo-expected-return-vs-bulls]. 3. **Hornets' Struggles**: - The Hornets were led by Brandon Miller (31 points) and LaMelo Ball (26 points), but their efforts were not enough to overcome the Bucks [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/bucks_top_hornets_earn_first_back_to_back_wins_since_october/s1_17045_43263083]. - The team faced injuries, including the absence of Kon Knueppel and Miles Bridges, which impacted their performance [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/bucks_top_hornets_earn_first_back_to_back_wins_since_october/s1_17045_43263083]. ### Key Statistics and Highlights - **Bucks' Scoring**: - Bobby Portis: 25 points - Giannis Antetokounmpo: 24 points, 7 assists - Myles Turner: 23 points - Kevin Porter Jr.: 15 points, 11 assists [https://apnews.com/article/bucks-hornets-score-0ee77910bc035df7fd4ba1e67a8394ae]. - **Hornets' Scoring**: - Brandon Miller: 31 points, 8 rebounds - LaMelo Ball: 26 points, 7 assists [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/bucks_top_hornets_earn_first_back_to_back_wins_since_october/s1_17045_43263083]. ### Conclusion: Bucks' Momentum Builds with Key Players Returning The Milwaukee Bucks are regaining their momentum with back-to-back victories, largely attributed to the return of Giannis Antetokounmpo and strong performances from their bench. This resurgence is crucial as they aim to improve their standing in the Eastern Conference. The team's ability to secure consecutive wins for the first time since October indicates a positive shift in their season trajectory. 1. **Bucks' Recent Wins**: Achieved back-to-back victories against the Bulls and Hornets. 2. **Antetokounmpo's Impact**: His return has been a game-changer, contributing significantly to the team's success. 3. **Hornets' Challenges**: Despite strong individual performances, the Hornets continue to struggle with injuries and consistency. The Bucks will look to build on this momentum as they continue their season [https://apnews.com/article/bucks-hornets-score-0ee77910bc035df7fd4ba1e67a8394ae][https://madison.com/sports/professional/nba/bucks/article_10c00a31-6d92-47f5-928c-73aa3371c800.html].