The New York Knicks booked their place in the NBA Cup quarter-finals with a 118-109 win over Milwaukee, a result powered by Jalen Brunson’s 37-point performance and one that ended the Bucks’ title defence.
Giannis Antetokounmpo returned from injury to post 30 points, 15 rebounds and eight assists, but it wasn’t enough to stop Milwaukee from falling to a seventh straight defeat.
The Bucks pulled within two in the fourth quarter, yet Brunson’s composure at the line, hitting nine of 10 free throws, pushed the Knicks clear.
New York finished top of their group, and their victory also sent the Miami Heat through as the Eastern Conference wild card. The quarter-finals will take place on December 9 and 10.
The Orlando Magic joined them after grinding out a 112-109 win in Detroit Pistons. Despite a strong Pistons rally and a 39-point triple-double from Cade Cunningham, the Magic held firm, helped by Desmond Bane’s 37 points and a crucial pair of late free throws from Jalen Suggs. Orlando advanced with a perfect 4-0 group record.