Bucks Win Without Giannis as Ryan Rollins Leads Balanced Attack Over Warriors

The Milwaukee Bucks managed to continue their early-season surge Thursday night without their biggest star, defeating the Golden State Warriors 120-110 at Fiserv Forum. Two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo was a late scratch due to left knee soreness, sitting out for the first time this season.

Antetokounmpo had been listed as probable on the team’s injury report throughout the day, and the decision to rest him came less than an hour before tipoff following pregame warmups. Head coach Doc Rivers said there was no immediate update on his condition, though the star forward appeared to be in good spirits, laughing and chatting with teammates in the locker room after the game.

Despite missing their leader, the Bucks showed no signs of slowing down. Milwaukee improved to 4-1 on the season, driven by a balanced offensive effort that saw eight players reach double figures. Leading the way was guard Ryan Rollins, who notched a career-high 32 points in another breakout performance.

It marked the second consecutive game in which Rollins set a new career scoring best, following his 25-point outing two nights earlier against the New York Knicks.

1. Rollins Steps Into the Spotlight

Rollins’ emergence has been one of the early bright spots of Milwaukee’s campaign. The young guard, in just his second NBA season, displayed confidence and composure beyond his experience level, attacking the basket, creating plays for teammates, and converting key shots throughout the game. “I won’t say we knew it, but from the first couple of days of training camp we realized we’ve got a lot of guys who can score,” Rollins said postgame. “A lot of people that are dogs — they compete, play fast, and play the right way. Everybody’s going to have a chance to eat.” Rollins’ words reflected a broader theme emerging under Rivers’ leadership — a deeper, more selfless version of the Bucks offense. With Antetokounmpo sidelined, Rollins seamlessly assumed a larger role, showing his ability to operate as both a scorer and facilitator. His recent scoring stretch has not only boosted his confidence but also given Milwaukee an additional offensive option — a crucial development for a team looking to manage minutes and preserve its stars for the long season ahead.

2. Team Depth on Full Display

Milwaukee’s win highlighted the team’s versatility and depth, two qualities that have defined its success early in the season. Without Antetokounmpo’s usual production — an average of 36.3 points, 14 rebounds, and 7 assists on 69.5% shooting — the Bucks still found offense from all corners of the lineup. Eight players reached double figures, with balanced contributions from the starting five and the bench. The ball movement and energy remained high, a sign that Rivers’ system emphasizes adaptability and shared responsibility. The Warriors made several pushes throughout the game, but Milwaukee’s balanced scoring and defensive effort kept them at bay. Even in the absence of their leader, the Bucks demonstrated poise and confidence, closing out another statement victory. For Rivers, who continues to mold his squad around both veteran stars and emerging young talent, Thursday’s win underscored a simple truth — the Bucks can win in multiple ways, even when their MVP is resting.

3. Looking Ahead for Milwaukee

As the Bucks prepare for the coming stretch of the season, Antetokounmpo’s health remains the foremost concern. While his absence against Golden State was labeled precautionary, Milwaukee will continue to monitor his knee to ensure long-term readiness. In the meantime, the performance of players like Rollins serves as a reminder of the team’s growing depth. His back-to-back career highs offer encouragement for a roster that aspires not only to contend for a title but to remain sustainable over an 82-game season. For now, Milwaukee’s ability to win without its superstar reinforces its championship ambitions. The team’s collective mindset — rooted in unselfishness and readiness — has quickly become its identity under Rivers’ direction. The Bucks will look to keep their momentum alive, confident that whether or not Antetokounmpo suits up, they have enough firepower to compete with anyone in the league.