Full Breakdown
Bucks Struggle Without Giannis, Fall to Hornets 111-100
11/13/2025, 10:30:29 PM
Game Overview: Bucks vs. Hornets
On November 12, 2025, the Milwaukee Bucks faced the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center, suffering a 111-100 defeat. The Bucks played without their star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was sidelined due to left knee patellar tendinopathy. This marked the second consecutive game Antetokounmpo missed, impacting Milwaukee's offensive consistency. Despite the absence of key players, including Kevin Porter Jr. and Taurean Prince, Ryan Rollins emerged as the standout for the Bucks, scoring 25 points.
Key Performers and Statistics
The Hornets were led by Miles Bridges, who contributed 20 points, while rookie Ryan Kalkbrenner had an impressive performance, shooting 8-for-8 from the field for 17 points. Collin Sexton and Kon Knueppel each added 16 points. The Hornets dominated the boards, outrebounding the Bucks 50-34, including 15 offensive rebounds that translated into 19 second-chance points. The Bucks struggled with their shooting, finishing at 45.5% overall and only managing 30 attempts from beyond the arc, a stark contrast to the Hornets' 27 free throw attempts, of which they made 23.
Official Statements & Responses
Bucks head coach Doc Rivers noted the team's struggles without Antetokounmpo, emphasizing the need for improved ball movement and shot selection. "I just didn't think the ball moved much," Rivers stated, highlighting the team's reliance on tough jump shots. Rollins echoed this sentiment, stating, "We just didn't make a lot of shots, enough shots, like we usually do."
Hornets head coach Charles Lee praised Kalkbrenner's performance, saying, "He understands what his role is and where he needs to be on the floor." Lee also acknowledged the team's improved play, stating, "We all played connected, and that’s the fun way to play."
Criticism & Opposition
Critics pointed out the Bucks' inability to adapt defensively, particularly in rebounding, which has been a recurring issue. Rivers remarked on the need for attention to detail in rebounding, stating, "It takes the bigs, you gotta get the guy out the play and then the guards come to grab it or vice versa." The Hornets capitalized on this weakness, with Moussa Diabaté's 13 rebounds underscoring the Bucks' struggles.
What's Next
The Bucks will host the Hornets again on November 14, 2025, in an NBA Cup matchup, where they will look to bounce back from this defeat. Antetokounmpo is expected to return for this rematch, which could significantly alter the dynamics of the game. Meanwhile, the Hornets aim to build on their recent success and continue their upward trajectory in the Eastern Conference standings.
