The Bucks’ bench players erased a sluggish start from the starters last night, as the team won its first preseason game of the year with a 110-101 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.
photo: bucks.com
Greg Monroe led all Bucks starters in points, as he tallied 19 points while notching 13 rebounds. Rookie Rashad Vaughn chipped in with 19 points off the bench. John Henson provided a strong contribution off the bench as well, recording 16 points as well as reeling in 10 rebounds.
The Bucks started the game off with a lethargic style of play, as they quickly got into the Cavaliers into the bonus in the first quarter. Cleveland quickly catapulted out to a lead mainly due to an advantage at the free throw line.
Mo Williams led all of Cleveland in scoring with 18 points on 4-of-15 shooting. Richard Jefferson also put forth a strong 16-point performance.
Superstar LeBron James was given the night off by Head Coach David Blatt as the Cavaliers were playing their second preseason game in as many nights. Center Timofey Mozgov also received a day to rest, as well as Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love.
Forward Damien Inglis made his first start for Milwaukee and ended with two points in eight minutes of play. The Frenchman missed the entirety of last season after undergoing two surgeries to repair a broken ankle.
O.J. Mayo finished the night for Milwaukee with 12 points and 10 assists, joining Greg Monroe and John Henson in the double-double club. Giannis Antetokounmpo was given the night off to rest by Head Coach Jason Kidd.
The Bucks are now off until they host the Washington Wizards at the BMO Harris Bradley Center in Milwaukee on Saturday.