Giannis Returns: Bucks Edge Hornets 147-134 in Overtime Thrill

UPDATE: Giannis Antetokounmpo made an explosive return, leading the Milwaukee Bucks to a thrilling 147-134 overtime victory against the Charlotte Hornets on November 14, 2025. This high-stakes NBA Cup game showcased Antetokounmpo’s dominance with 25 points, 18 assists, and 7 rebounds, as the Bucks avenged their earlier loss to the Hornets.

This victory is crucial for the Bucks, improving their record to 8-5 overall and 2-0 in NBA Cup play, while the Hornets drop to 4-8 and 0-2 in the tournament. The urgency of the match was palpable, with both teams striving for redemption after the Hornets defeated the Bucks 111-100 just days prior, when Antetokounmpo was sidelined due to patellar tendinopathy in his left knee.

Former Milwaukee high school star Kon Knueppel made headlines in his hometown debut, scoring a remarkable 32 points for the Hornets. He hit two crucial 3-pointers late in regulation, tying the game at 125 with just over a minute left and again at 129 with only 21 seconds remaining. His performance electrified the crowd, highlighting the emotional stakes of the game as he faced off against his childhood team.

Despite the excitement, the game was not without its drama. Antetokounmpo struggled with 7 turnovers and missed a crucial shot at the buzzer, sending the game into overtime. However, the Bucks rallied, with Kyle Kuzma stepping up to score 29 points and grab 10 rebounds, while Ryan Rollins contributed 20 points to secure the win.

The Hornets’ Miles Bridges also matched Knueppel’s intensity, scoring 32 points of his own, while LaMelo Ball tallied 16 points and 10 assists. The game was a showcase of talent from both teams, reflecting the competitive nature of the NBA Cup.

Looking ahead, the Hornets will host the Oklahoma City Thunder tomorrow night, while the Bucks prepare to face the Los Angeles Lakers. The implications of these games are significant, as teams vie for position in the tightly contested NBA landscape.

This latest development in the NBA season promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats. The Bucks’ ability to bounce back from adversity, especially with Antetokounmpo’s return, sets the stage for an exciting continuation of the season. Stay tuned for more updates as the NBA Cup unfolds.