In a thrilling overtime showdown, the Milwaukee Bucks managed to edge out the New Orleans Pelicans with a score of 141-137, despite an outstanding individual performance from Trey Murphy III, who exploded for a career-best 44 points. Murphy's impressive shooting included an astonishing 12 out of 19 from beyond the arc, tying him for the fifth-highest number of three-pointers made in a single game in NBA history. This remarkable feat places him just behind Klay Thompson, who holds the record with 14 three-pointers during a game against the Chicago Bulls on October 29, 2018.
Throughout the game, both teams demonstrated their sharpshooting skills, combining for an impressive 45 successful three-point attempts out of 93 tries, with the Pelicans connecting on 24 of 46 and the Bucks sinking 21 of 47 shots from long range. The Bucks also showcased their offensive prowess by achieving a season-high shooting percentage of 60.9% overall.
As overtime commenced, the Bucks took control early, scoring the first five points courtesy of Ryan Rollins' driving layup followed by a three-pointer from Myles Turner. The tension mounted as the Pelicans found themselves trailing 139-137 when Zion Williamson was charged with an offensive foul right before Saddiq Bey's potential go-ahead three-pointer fell short with only 6.5 seconds remaining in the extra period.
To seal the victory, Kevin Porter Jr. of the Bucks calmly converted two free throws with just 5.2 seconds left on the clock. Porter had a solid night, contributing 18 points along with nine assists and six rebounds after returning from a six-game absence due to an oblique strain. AJ Green also added a valuable 20 points for Milwaukee, while for New Orleans, Bey scored 22 points and Williamson chipped in with 20.
In a pivotal moment late in the fourth quarter, the Bucks seemed to have taken the lead when Myles Turner hit a crucial corner three-pointer with just 5.5 seconds remaining. However, after a review confirmed that his left heel was out of bounds before he took the shot, the score remained tied.
This victory marked the second consecutive win for the Bucks, who had recently broken a five-game losing streak with a convincing 131-115 triumph over the Chicago Bulls just the night before. Notably, the Bucks have yet to enjoy a winning streak longer than two games this season.
Despite the victory, the Bucks were still without their two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has been sidelined since January 23 due to a calf strain. Antetokounmpo has been the subject of intense trade speculation lately and was seen observing the game from the sidelines, adding fuel to the ongoing buzz surrounding his future with the team as the trade deadline approaches.
