Apr 13, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Michael Carter-Williams (5) dunks against the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Bucks won 107-97. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Michael Carter-Williams detonated for 30 points against his former team as the Bucks beat the Philadelphia 76ers 107-97, sweeping the 76ers for just the second time in franchise history.
Playing with what can only be described as a playoff-clinching hangover, the Bucks looked listless for much of the first half–allowing the 76ers to take a 53-39 lead with 2:47 left in the second quarter.
Ever the battle-hardy squad, the Bucks battled back to a 58-52 halftime deficit on the legs of late back-to-back threes from Ersan Ilyasova and Khris Middleton.
The Bucks came out of the locker room with a completely different attitude. In contrast to their lackadaisical first half effort, the Bucks played with renewed intensity–particularly on the defensive end, allowing just four Philadelphia field goals in the third quarter.
The fourth quarter started with the newest episode of the O.J. Mayo show. The veteran guard scored six points in the first 1:12 of the frame as the Bucks took a 87-79 lead. The 76ers, bad as they are, seized the opportunity to give up and before long the Bucks carved out a commanding 98-83 lead.
The bench unit played out the string and despite sloppy play over the final five minutes the Bucks emerged 107-97 winners, clinching their first non-losing season since 2009-2010 and just their second since the 03-04 season.
Back at home the Bucks held a viewing party for the official release of their new logos. Reaction to the logos has been very positive and it’s clear the new brass understands the importance of reaching a state-wide audience. You can check out more on the logos here.
For now the Bucks are still green and red. Check out our grades and reactions from their 107-97 win that left Philadelphia fans feeling blue.
Next: Reactions: The Good