14.03.2025
Detroit Pistons 125 - 129 Washington Wizards
In a thrilling NBA matchup, the Washington Wizards edged out the Detroit Pistons 129-125, thanks to Alex Sarr's decisive performance in the game's final minute. Sarr not only scored the go-ahead basket with 53 seconds remaining but also made a crucial block on Cade Cunningham's dunk attempt, highlighting his 19-point contribution. Justin Champagnie and Kyshawn George also played vital roles, with George scoring all his nine points in the fourth quarter through three clutch 3-pointers. Despite a stellar 38-point, 10-rebound effort from Cade Cunningham and a double-double from Jalen Duren, the Pistons couldn't sustain their momentum, missing all eight of their fourth-quarter 3-point attempts. The Wizards, who shot an impressive 61% from the floor in the last quarter, rebounded from a previous loss to Detroit with sharper play. Notably, Jaden Ivey's ongoing recovery from a fractured tibia dampens Detroit's outlook, as he aims to return for the playoffs. Both teams are set for Saturday action, with Washington visiting Denver and Detroit hosting Oklahoma City.
Milwaukee Bucks 126 - 106 Los Angeles Lakers
In a matchup against a depleted Los Angeles Lakers team, the Milwaukee Bucks ended their three-game losing streak with a 126-106 win, highlighted by Giannis Antetokounmpo's near triple-double of 24 points, 12 rebounds, and nine assists. Despite Luka Doncic's impressive 45-point and 11-rebound performance, which marked his season high since joining the Lakers, the Bucks capitalized on their depth and managed a significant 45-20 advantage in bench scoring led by Kevin Porter Jr.'s swift 22 points in only 17 minutes. Brook Lopez contributed 23 points, while Damian Lillard bolstered the Bucks with 22 points, 10 assists, and six rebounds. The Lakers, playing without LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Jaxson Hayes due to injuries, struggled against Milwaukee's height and depth, which proved decisive as the Bucks pulled away with a dominant 24-7 run in the third quarter. With LeBron and others ruled out for the Lakers' game against Denver, Los Angeles faces continued challenges in their current road trip.
Chicago Bulls 116 - 110 Brooklyn Nets
Coby White's outstanding performance, scoring 31 points and extending his streak of 20-point games to a career-best seven, led the Chicago Bulls to a 116-110 victory against the Brooklyn Nets. This win marked Chicago's season-high fourth consecutive victory, placing them 10th in the Eastern Conference with the final play-in position. Significant contributions came from Kevin Huerter, Tre Jones, and Julian Phillips, with Phillips achieving career highs in points, rebounds, and assists. Despite a strong effort from the Nets, led by Cam Thomas with 24 points and 10 assists, Brooklyn couldn't sustain their 12-point lead and lost their 10th game in the last 12 matches. The Bulls mounted a comeback, with a pivotal 17-3 run and crucial late-game execution, to overcome Brooklyn's advantage. As both teams prepare for upcoming games, the Bulls are set for a season-high, six-game road trip starting in Houston, while the Nets will host Boston.
Golden State Warriors 130 - 104 Sacramento Kings
Stephen Curry made history by becoming the first NBA player to hit 4,000 career 3-pointers as the Golden State Warriors defeated the Sacramento Kings 130-104, marking their sixth consecutive win and their 11th in the last 12 games. The crowd celebrated as Curry achieved this milestone, which was highlighted by a tribute during a timeout. The victory also saw Steve Kerr tie with Al Attles for the most coaching wins in Warriors franchise history with 557. Jonathan Kuminga made a strong return from injury, contributing 18 points, while Draymond Green led the Warriors with 23 points. On Sacramento's side, DeMar DeRozan scored 23 points in a game that marked the Kings' third consecutive loss. The Warriors shot an impressive 56.4% from beyond the arc, while Curry, on the eve of his 37th birthday, added 11 points to his team's tally.
New Orleans Pelicans 93 - 113 Orlando Magic
In a commanding performance, the Orlando Magic defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 113-93, powered by standout performances from Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Banchero tallied 34 points, 11 rebounds, and four steals, while Wagner contributed 27 points, six rebounds, and five assists. The Magic took control early, establishing a definitive 68-38 lead by halftime, a feat highlighted by Banchero’s 24 and Wagner’s 20 first-half points — a first since the introduction of detailed play-by-play stats in 1996-97. The Magic's impressive 51.8% shooting accuracy and limited eight turnovers underscored their offensive efficiency, crucial for bolstering their playoff hopes. For the Pelicans, Zion Williamson led with 20 points but couldn’t prevent the team’s downfall, exacerbated by a dismal 15-point second quarter. Orlando now heads to Minnesota, while New Orleans prepares to face the Spurs.