UPDATE: In a stunning performance, former Golden State Warrior Ryan Rollins led the Milwaukee Bucks to a decisive 120-110 victory over his old team on October 26, 2023. Despite the absence of superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, sidelined with a left knee injury, Rollins exploded for 32 points, igniting the Bucks’ offense at Fiserv Forum.
The game, attended by numerous fans in colorful Halloween costumes, turned into a showcase for Rollins, who opened the scoring with two quick 3-pointers. His performance was a clear highlight in a game where Milwaukee’s offense thrived, with Rollins scoring the Bucks’ first six points and hitting another key 3-pointer late in the fourth to extend the lead to ten.
Steph Curry attempted to keep Golden State competitive, finishing with 27 points, but the Warriors struggled defensively throughout the night. Jonathan Kuminga added 24 points and Jimmy Butler contributed 23 points, yet it wasn’t enough to overcome Milwaukee’s firepower.
The Bucks launched an impressive offensive strategy, averaging 38 three-point attempts per game, and even in Antetokounmpo’s absence, they maintained their shooting prowess by hitting 13 of 38 from beyond the arc. Milwaukee’s ability to create open looks was pivotal, as they ended the first quarter with a 10-0 run and a subsequent 12-0 run late in the third.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr expressed pride in Rollins, who previously struggled for playing time in Golden State. “He just needed to play, he needed experience, and we couldn’t really offer that given where we were,” Kerr stated pre-game. Rollins, who was part of the Jordan Poole to Chris Paul trade, capitalized on his starting opportunity, having recently scored a career-high 25 points against Cleveland.
The Warriors, now 4-2 for the season, will look to reverse their fortunes against the Indiana Pacers this Saturday. Meanwhile, Curry’s free throw miss in the fourth quarter marked the end of his consecutive makes streak at 57, the second-longest of his career, adding to the frustration for Golden State fans.
As the Bucks continue to adapt without their star player, the emergence of Rollins could be a game-changer for Milwaukee. Fans are already buzzing about his potential, making this a developing story to watch as the season unfolds.
