Giannis Returns, But Celtics Blow Out Bucks 108-81

The Milwaukee Bucks welcomed back Giannis Antetokounmpo after a lengthy absence, but the Boston Celtics delivered a dominant performance, defeating Milwaukee 108-81 on Monday night. Despite Antetokounmpo’s return, the Celtics controlled the game from the opening tip.

Antetokounmpo’s Return Not Enough

Playing his first game since January 23rd due to a calf strain, Antetokounmpo helped the Bucks start strong with a 7-0 run. However, the Celtics quickly responded, outscoring Milwaukee 37-13 for the remainder of the first quarter and building a substantial lead. The Celtics eventually led by as many as 24 points.

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel“The Milwaukee Bucks did not get a boost from the return of Giannis Antetokounmpo as the Boston Celtics took control of the game early and cruised to a 108-81 victory March 2 and Fiserv Forum.”

Antetokounmpo managed to help the Bucks close the gap to nine points early in the second half, but the Celtics’ guard-heavy lineup and strong rebounding proved too much for Milwaukee to overcome.

Bucks Struggle, Celtics Relentless

Milwaukee (26-34) struggled to mount a serious challenge after the first quarter. This loss marks the Bucks’ third consecutive defeat and fourth in their last six games.

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel“We were playing great and we’ve kind of lost our way,” Bucks head coach Doc Rivers said. “I think it’s on both ends. I think offensively we had a great rhythm. And we’ve done it in spurts in the last three games but we haven’t been able to sustain.”

Bobby Portis Jr. Acknowledged the increased difficulty of their recent schedule, stating, Playing better teams. Kind of fool’s gold for real. We won eight out of 10 playing against teams that’s bottom teams that’s trying to lose, for real right? (Now) we’re playing against some teams that’s jockeying for (playoff) position.

Antetokounmpo’s Perspective

Despite the loss, Antetokounmpo expressed his happiness at being back on the court. I’m just happy that I’m on the court,” he said. It doesn’t matter if I play 18 minutes, 20 minutes, 22, whatever, I’m just happy that I’m out there. Obviously did not play well tonight, but at the finish of the day, I’m just happy that I’m out there being able to help my teammates in any way that I can and just do what I love, which is play basketball. He finished the game with 19 points and 11 rebounds.

Other NBA Highlights

Other NBA games included a Clippers victory over the Golden State Warriors (114-101), a Rockets win against the Washington Wizards (123-118), and a hard-fought Denver Nuggets win over the Utah Jazz (128-125).

FAQ

• When did Giannis Antetokounmpo return? He returned on March 2, 2026, against the Boston Celtics.
• What was the final score of the Bucks vs. Celtics game? The Celtics won 108-81.
• How many points did Giannis Antetokounmpo score? He scored 19 points.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Giannis’s performance as he gets back into game shape. His impact on the Bucks’ playoff push will be crucial.

Do you think the Bucks can turn their season around? Share your thoughts in the comments below!