Bucks third quarter comeback : The New York Knicks faced off against the Milwaukee Bucks on October 28, 2025, at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee in an eagerly anticipated NBA showdown. Both teams came into this matchup with identical 2-1 records, seeking to assert dominance early in the season and gain an edge in their division race.
Pre-Game Context
Leading up to the game, the Bucks were coming off a hard-fought loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, where Giannis Antetokounmpo dazzled with 40 points, 14 rebounds, and nine assists but couldn’t secure the win. The Knicks, meanwhile, were looking to bounce back after a defeat to the Miami Heat, powered by guard Jalen Brunson’s impressive scoring bursts in previous games. Both teams had key players returning from minor injuries, which set the stage for an intense contest featuring high stakes and fierce competition.
Bucks third quarter comeback Game Overview and Score Summary
The game commenced with vigorous pace, as Milwaukee took a slight lead early on with balanced scoring. The first quarter ended with the Bucks narrowly ahead at 27-26. The New York Knicks then surged impressively in the second quarter, outscoring Milwaukee 45-32, taking a solid 71-59 lead by halftime. However, the Bucks stormed back after the break with a dominant third quarter, scoring 35 points to the Knicks’ 20, reclaiming control of the game by the fourth quarter.
In the final minutes, the Bucks maintained their momentum, closing strong to secure a 121-111 victory over the Knicks. This win improved Milwaukee’s record to 3-1, while New York dropped to 2-2 for the season.
Standout Player Performances
Milwaukee’s victory was fueled heavily by Giannis Antetokounmpo, who once again showcased his all-around brilliance. He recorded a game-high 37 points, supplemented by 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Giannis’s ability to dominate both in the paint and on the perimeter was pivotal as he carried the Bucks during crucial stretches.
Ryan Rollins had a career night, contributing 25 points on highly efficient shooting, including perfect marks from three-point range and free throws. Gary Trent Jr. added a valuable 11 points, providing key scoring off the bench.
For the Knicks, Jalen Brunson continued to lead the offense with consistency, reaching double figures in points and assists. Karl-Anthony Towns, battling through some injury concerns, put up a double-double with 20 points and 14 rebounds, though his impact was limited compared to his usual dominance. Obi Toppin and Mikal Bridges also chipped in with important contributions but couldn’t overcome the Bucks’ second-half surge.
Key Moments and Tactical Insights
The first half saw the Knicks execute a strategic game plan focused on aggressive defense and quick transition offense, which allowed them to build a double-digit lead by halftime. Jalen Brunson’s playmaking and Towns’ presence in the paint disrupted Milwaukee’s rhythm early on.
However, the Bucks adjusted effectively during halftime under coach Mike Budenholzer’s direction. Defensive rotations tightened, and Giannis took command, spearheading fast breaks and attacking the rim relentlessly. Milwaukee’s bench, led by Ryan Rollins’ sharpshooting, provided the scoring depth that helped turn the tide in the third quarter.
The fourth quarter was a testament to Milwaukee’s resilience and experience, as they managed the clock well and maintained composure against the Knicks’ efforts to rally.
Impact on the Season and Outlook
This battle between two evenly matched teams highlighted the competitive nature of the Eastern Conference this NBA season. For the Bucks, the win reinforces their position as early contenders with Giannis continuing to play at an MVP level. It also showed the team’s ability to bounce back from deficits, an encouraging sign for the long grind ahead.
The Knicks, despite the loss, gained valuable insights especially regarding health and lineup adjustments. Maintaining consistency on defense and enhancing offensive support for Brunson and Towns will be critical moving forward. The team’s potential remains high, but their ability to close out games will require refinement.
The October 28, 2025 NBA game between the New York Knicks and Milwaukee Bucks delivered an entertaining display of skill, strategy, and athleticism. The Bucks’ resilience and star power proved the difference, earning them a vital home win and proving their championship aspirations are strong this season. Meanwhile, the Knicks look to regroup and come back stronger as the season progresses, with key players ready to elevate their game.
