Clippers Snap Bucks' Five-Game Win Streak as Harden Goes Nuclear with 40 Points

An unforgettable night. Giannis Antetokounmpo (L) and James Harden (R) delivered a spectacular performance during their game at the Intuit Dome on January 25, 2025. Photo by Nicholai Roska for Tangent Zine.

Heading into Saturday's game, the Milwaukee Bucks were on a roll with five straight wins, while the Clippers seemed worn out after playing their fifth game in just seven days. Giannis Antetokounmpo and company were feeling pretty confident since the Clippers hadn't managed to beat them since April Fool's Day 2022.

James Harden of the Clippers is swarmed by Damian Lillard, Brook Lopez and Andre Jackson Jr. Photo by Nicholai Roska of Tangent Zine.

However, James Harden had different intentions. The Beard exploded with 40 points, scoring 17 in the third quarter, to guide the Clippers to a 127-117 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks.

Norman Powell of the Clippers maneuvers past Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks. Photo by Nicholai Roska for Tangent Zine.

Norman Powell stayed aggressive throughout the night and ended the game with 33 points, while Ivica Zubac maintained his status as a double-double machine, contributing 12 points and 10 rebounds.

Ivica Zubac of the Clippers is fouled by Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks. Photo by Nicholai Roska of Tangent Zine

Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 36 points and 13 rebounds, converting 11 out of 13 free throws. Meanwhile, Damian Lillard recorded a triple-double with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, successfully making 16 of 17 free throws.

Giannis Antetokounmpo effortlessly navigates through the Clippers defense. Photo by Nicholai Roska of Tangent Zine.

Giannis Antetokounmpo is seen warming up before the game against the LA Clippers. Photo by Nicholai Roska of Tangent Zine

Damian Lillard takes a shot over Terance Mann from the LA Clippers. Photo by Nicholai Roska for Tangent Zine.

Trailing by as much as 11 points, the elite Clippers defense intensified in the second half, trapping the Bucks offense and compelling them to commit 13 turnovers including five in the fourth quarter. In a tightly contested game featuring 14 lead changes and 17 ties, the Clippers exhibited perfection from the free-throw line, converting all 28 of their attempts for a flawless 100% success rate.

UP NEXT: The Bucks will travel to Utah on Monday, while the Clippers begin a four-game road trip starting with Phoenix on January 27 Monday night.