The NBA Cup Final is Set: Bucks vs Thunder for the Championship
It’s all come down to this: the Milwaukee Bucks and the Oklahoma City Thunder will face off in the 2024 NBA Cup Final. After weeks of competitive matchups and a few surprises, these two teams have emerged as the last ones standing. On Tuesday night at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Thunder vs Bucks will take center stage as they battle for the trophy in what promises to be an epic showdown.
The Road to the Final
The Milwaukee Bucks have had a season of highs and lows, but they’ve timed their resurgence perfectly. Back in early November, Milwaukee was struggling, sitting at 2-8, with people questioning if they could even compete this year. Fast forward a month, and they’ve turned it around spectacularly, winning 12 of their last 15 games. Their leader, Giannis Antetokounmpo, has been nothing short of extraordinary, averaging 32.7 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 6.1 assists while shooting over 60% from the field. Milwaukee’s semifinal win over the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday, 110-102, showcased the team’s ability to dominate when it matters most.
The Oklahoma City Thunder, on the other hand, are the rising stars of the NBA. With a young, hungry squad, the Thunder have been lighting up the league, earning the NBA’s best defense and a league-leading +12 net rating. They’ve also proven they can win under pressure. Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who’s been playing like a man on a mission, the Thunder defeated the Houston Rockets in the semifinals, 111-96. Gilgeous-Alexander delivered another clutch performance with 32 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 steals, proving why he’s one of the league’s fastest-rising superstars.
The Stars Take Center Stage
This matchup is more than just Bucks vs. Thunder. It’s Giannis vs. Shai. Two players at very different points in their careers, both with something to prove.
Giannis is already a household name. He’s got the accolades: two MVP awards, a Finals MVP, and a 2021 NBA championship where he famously scored 50 points in the decisive Game 6. He’s a force of nature, combining size, speed, and skill in a way few players ever have. Every team tries to stop him, but most just hope to slow him down.
For Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, this is his moment to step into the spotlight. While he’s not as decorated as Giannis (yet), his performances this season show he’s ready to take that next step. He’s already carried the Thunder to one of the league’s best records, and now he’s eyeing his first big trophy. For Shai, this game isn’t just about winning—it’s about showing he belongs among the NBA’s elite.
Source: 2024 NBA Cup: Live updates, highlights, takeaways
What to Watch For
The Bucks and the Thunder couldn’t be more different in their approach to the game, and that’s what makes this matchup so exciting.
Milwaukee is built around Giannis’s ability to dominate inside. Whether it’s in transition or half-court sets, he’s relentless, and the Thunder’s defense will need to find a way to contain him. Oklahoma City will likely rely on Luguentz Dort and Alex Caruso to guard Giannis on the perimeter, with Isaiah Hartenstein helping inside. But that’s easier said than done. Giannis draws over 11 free throws per game, and the Thunder, who rank near the bottom in free throw attempts, will need to be disciplined to avoid foul trouble.
The Thunder, meanwhile, thrive on speed, athleticism, and a barrage of three-pointers. They average over 40 three-point attempts per game, making them one of the league’s most dangerous outside-shooting teams. If players like Jalen Williams and Josh Giddey get hot from beyond the arc, Milwaukee’s defense could struggle to keep up. The Bucks have had issues containing quick guards this season, and slowing down Shai will be their biggest challenge.
How We Got Here
The NBA Cup, now in its second year, is the league’s answer to soccer-style tournaments. Built into the regular season, it adds a layer of excitement by turning some games into do-or-die matchups. Thirty teams started in group play, and only the top teams from each group advanced to the knockout rounds. From there, it was win or go home.
The Bucks and Thunder both dominated their groups before advancing through the quarterfinals and semifinals. Milwaukee defeated the Magic and Hawks in the knockout stage, while Oklahoma City knocked off the Mavericks and Rockets.
Why It Matters
The NBA Cup doesn’t guarantee a playoff spot or change the postseason picture, but it’s still a big deal. For players, there’s a financial incentive: $500,000 for each member of the winning team. But more than that, it’s about pride, momentum, and making a statement.
For Milwaukee, this is a chance to remind the league that they’re still contenders. After their rocky start, a win here could set the tone for the rest of the season. For Oklahoma City, it’s about proving they’ve arrived. Winning the NBA Cup would solidify the Thunder as one of the best young teams in the league and send a message that they’re ready to compete at the highest level.
A Showdown in Vegas
Tuesday’s final isn’t just about basketball; it’s a clash of styles, philosophies, and stars. Milwaukee’s experience and power face off against Oklahoma City’s youth and speed. Giannis, the established superstar, takes on Shai, the rising star. Both teams have earned their spot in the final, and both are playing some of their best basketball of the season.
If you’re a basketball fan, this is must-watch TV. The NBA Cup might still be a new concept, but games like this are what make it special. It’s about more than wins and losses—it’s about moments, rivalries, and performances that fans will talk about for years.
Final Tip-Off
The 2024 NBA Cup Final tips off Tuesday at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC. Whether you’re rooting for Giannis and the Bucks or Shai and the Thunder, one thing is certain: it’s going to be an unforgettable game.
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