Bucks Dismantle Celtics in First Half, Secure 135-102 Win

Celtics' coach pulls starters at halftime, Bucks' defensive urgency pivotal in victory

The Milwaukee Bucks secured a 135-102 win over the Boston Celtics, making their statement with a first half dismantling of the NBA’s best team.
Bucks point guard Damian Lillard returned Thursday and announced his presence early with eight points in the first three minutes, while Antetokounmpo tallied 24 points, 12 rebounds and six assists in only 26 minutes.
The Bucks brought an urgency to the defensive end that hasn’t been there consistently this season, with a 25-0 run that spanned six minutes from the end of the first quarter to the start of the second.
Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla pulled the starters at halftime with a 37-point deficit, deciding to prioritize the bigger picture instead of an unlikely comeback attempt.
The Celtics, on their fifth game in seven nights and lacking energy, saw their trademark consistency evaporate in the first half, trailing 41-23 after the first quarter and surrendering a 15-0 run to begin the second.