February 26th - The Bucks narrowly defeated the Cavaliers 118-116. The Cavaliers fought hard despite Harden's absence, with Allen scoring 27 points and grabbing 11 rebounds, and Schroder contributing 26 points and 5 assists. For the Bucks, Porter Jr. had 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists, with multiple players contributing to the victory.

In the first quarter, the Cavaliers quickly established a 7- point lead through a combination of inside and outside play. The Bucks then increased their offensive and defensive intensity, gradually erasing the deficit and even taking the lead at one point, ending the first quarter tied at 33-33. In the second quarter, the Cavaliers relied on Allen's efficient performance, scoring 12 points and frequently attacking the basket. The Bucks responded through teamwork, with Rollins and Kuzma scoring consecutively to keep the score close. At halftime, the Cavaliers held a slight 63-62 lead.

After switching sides, the Bucks relied on Porter to orchestrate the offense, while Turner and Green hit from beyond the arc, helping the Bucks control the tempo. However, the Cavaliers narrowed the gap with crucial shots from Schroder and Merrill. At the end of the third quarter, the Cavaliers led 94-93. In the final quarter, the Cavaliers once held a 5- point lead, but the Bucks rallied with consecutive scores from Porter and Portis to take the lead, and Rollins delivered a crucial assist to stabilize the situation. Ultimately, the Bucks narrowly won 118-116.

Cavaliers player statistics

Allen 27 points, 11 rebounds, 1 assist; Schroder 26 points, 2 rebounds, 5 assists; Ellis 14 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists; Merrill 14 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists; Tyson 14 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists; Bryant 11 points, 2 rebounds; Porter 8 points, 2 rebounds, 9 assists; Tomlin 2 points, 2 rebounds; Nance Jr. 2 rebounds, 1 assist; Wade 4 rebounds, 4 assists.

Bucks player statistics

Porter had 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists; Rollins had 18 points, 3 rebounds, and 9 assists; Kuzma had 17 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists; Turner had 15 points and 3 rebounds; Green had 15 points, 1 rebound, and 2 assists; Sims had 11 points, 11 rebounds, and 2 assists; Portis had 10 points, 5 rebounds, and 1 assist; Thomas had 7 points, 1 rebound, and 2 assists; and Dieng had 5 points and 2 assists.

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