Antetokounmpo breaks Abdul-Jabbar's rebounding record as Bucks halt Rockets' winning streak at five games

In Milwaukee's 128-119 victory over the Houston Rockets on Sunday night, Giannis Antetokounmpo had 26 points and 17 rebounds, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the team's all-time leader in rebounds. Damian Lillard added 39 points to the game.

Antetokounmpo's record-breaking performance in rebounding surpassed Abdul-Jabbar's previous record, solidifying his position as a dominant force on the court. This achievement comes after he already surpassed the Hall of Famer for the team's scoring record earlier in the 2021-22 season. Not only is Antetokounmpo a scoring and rebounding powerhouse, but he also holds the title of the Bucks' career leader in assists. This puts him in an elite group alongside basketball legends such as Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kevin Garnett, who have also led their respective franchises in all three categories.

Antetokounmpo expressed his gratitude for the recognition, acknowledging that his journey from a skinny kid from Greece, initially drafted to play in the G-League, to breaking records set by basketball icons like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, is an unexpected accomplishment. However, he remains humble, knowing that there will always be future players who will surpass the records he has set, just as he surpassed the records of Abdul-Jabbar, Oscar Robertson, and Marques Johnson.

In addition to Antetokounmpo's record-breaking performance, the Bucks secured their 13th consecutive home victory and improved their home record to an impressive 14-1. This win also put an end to the Rockets' five-game winning streak, as Houston struggled on the road, dropping to a 2-9 record.

Khris Middleton played a crucial role in the Bucks' victory, particularly in the fourth quarter, where he scored 14 of his 20 points. Middleton's ability to deliver when the team needed it most has become a consistent asset for the Bucks. Coach Adrian Griffin praised Middleton's ability to settle the team and provide crucial baskets when necessary.

Contributing to the team's success, Brook Lopez added 18 points, while Bobby Portis made an impact off the bench with 11 points. Middleton, who joined the Bucks in a trade the same year Antetokounmpo was drafted, expressed his surprise at his teammate's remarkable achievements. Middleton jokingly mentioned that Antetokounmpo now holds almost every franchise record except for three-point shooting, a skill that Antetokounmpo is not particularly known for. Middleton commended Antetokounmpo's dedication to his craft and his relentless pursuit of improvement, highlighting his teammate's unwavering commitment to excellence.

Dillon Brooks was ejected from the game after being penalized for flopping and receiving two technical fouls with only 38 seconds remaining. Rockets coach Ime Udoka also faced the same fate, being called for two technicals after stepping onto the court. As a result of the technical fouls, Damian Lillard had the opportunity to make 3 out of 4 free throws, tying his highest scoring total of the season. In addition to his scoring, Lillard contributed 11 assists and five rebounds throughout his 37 minutes on the court.

The Bucks secured a victory in the second game of a back-to-back series and now hold a perfect 9-0 record when Lillard scores 30 or more points.

Lillard expressed his thoughts, stating, "In my mind, I believed that by December, I would start feeling better, despite the challenges of adjusting to a new team and everything that comes with it."

Fred VanVleet led the Rockets with 22 points, while center Alperen Sengun contributed 20 points. Brooks added 18 points, and Jabari Smith Jr. and Jalen Green each scored 16 points.

Giannis Antetokounmpo surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's rebounding record by grabbing Tari Eason's missed shot with 7:46 remaining in the fourth quarter. This marked his 14th rebound of the game, and he went on to secure three more, bringing his total rebounds in his 11th season with Milwaukee to 17,165. The Bucks honored Antetokounmpo's achievement by showcasing a video of his career rebounding highlights during the next timeout, which received a tremendous ovation from the crowd at Fiserv Forum.

A basket by Brooks was nullified upon review when it was determined that he committed an offensive foul by inadvertently striking Pat Connaughton in the face with his right elbow.

The Bucks held a lead of up to 14 points in the late stages of the third quarter. However, Jeff Green's 3-pointer and two successful free throws reduced the Rockets' deficit to 100-91 as they entered the final period.

Lillard had a strong start to the game, scoring 15 points and providing five assists in the first quarter, helping the Bucks establish a 33-28 lead. Lillard displayed impressive shooting accuracy, going 5 for 6 from the field and 2 of 3 from beyond the arc.

In the second quarter, the Bucks received a much-needed boost from their rookie guard, Andre Jackson. He made a significant impact by tipping in a missed shot and swiftly scoring a layup on back-to-back possessions, helping Milwaukee secure a 52-43 lead. Furthermore, Jackson showcased his shooting skills by sinking a 3-pointer from the corner. By halftime, he had contributed a total of nine points to the team's score.

Despite the Rockets shooting an impressive 58.5% from the field, Milwaukee managed to maintain a lead of 71-60 at halftime. Lillard contributed 20 points to the Bucks' score, while Antetokounmpo added 17 points and eight rebounds.

Unfortunately, the Bucks had to play without guard Malik Beasley, who was absent for his second consecutive game due to a non-Covid illness.

Looking ahead, the Bucks will be hosting San Antonio on Tuesday, while the Rockets will be facing Cleveland on Monday.