Match review
First quarter: Thunder’s double-team tactics
The Thunder showed off their double-team tactics right from the start of the game. Harden drew the defence in with a pick-and-roll, then passed the ball to Chet at the bottom corner, who easily hit a three-pointer from the 45-degree angle. Despite the Bucks having a tall front line with players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kuzma, Delaney and Sims, the Thunder were able to gain some leads through interior defense and mid-range play from Alexander and Harden.
Bucks’ counterattack
The Bucks then adjusted their tactics, with the backcourt leading the offense. The combination of Jrue and Lillard helped the Bucks to turn the tables at the end of the first quarter with a 10-0 offensive run.
Second quarter: Thunder adjust and fight back
Alexander’s rest and Harden’s rise
After Alexander came off the court, Harden became the focal point of the Thunder’s offense. He had good chemistry with the shooter Isaiah Joe, creating space for the shooter through the screen and the Thunder quickly regained the lead.
Chett’s play
Chett then took over the game, taking advantage of his height to score from long range, and working the ball from hand to hand with Jerami Williams, constantly attacking the Bucks’ restricted area to create fouls. The Bucks’ outside shooting was not going well, while the Thunder maintained a double-digit lead going into the second half through their rebounding advantage and the outside pressure of Chett and Jerami.
3rd quarter: Thunder’s continued suppression
Harden’s versatile offense
Harden targeted the defensive weaknesses of Big洛 and continued to score through cuts or throws after the screen. The Bucks’ offense continued to struggle, and the gap continued to widen.
Contributions from role players
Wallace, Caruso and Wiggins, among other role players, contributed on both offense and defense. In particular, Caruso’s steal from Lillard and assist on Wiggins’ three-pointer demonstrated the strength of the Thunder team.
Bucks’ struggles
Despite the Bucks’ efforts to penetrate the paint and hit threes, the Thunder’s defense and ball movement made it difficult for them to close the gap, and the Thunder eventually won the game by a lead of about 15 points.
The outstanding performance of the Twin Towers
Harden’s career-high
Harden had a career-high performance, scoring 24 points and 12 rebounds on 12-of-15 shooting. Chet also scored 16 points and 8 rebounds. The two different styles of play provided the Thunder with a variety of offensive options.
Coexistence of the two towers
The Thunder are gradually finding a way to make the most of both Harden and Chet. Harden’s high-level playmaking and Chet’s shooting from the outside complement each other well, and they are expected to gel further in the future.
How to defend against Giannis Antetokounmpo
Man-wall strategy
The Thunder use a wall strategy to limit Antetokounmpo’s offense through double teams and coordinated defense. Harden is the first line of defense, while Wallace, Caruso and Alexander are responsible for disrupting Antetokounmpo’s passes and drives.
Low post defense
The Thunder place multiple defenders on Antetokounmpo when he is dribbling low, cutting off his connection with his teammates and forcing him to take mid-range shots, reducing his threat in the paint.
Coach’s adjustments
Thunder coach D’Antoni made timely adjustments to the defensive strategy, and the players executed with discipline, successfully limiting the play of Antetokounmpo.
Alexander’s breakthrough
Historical record
Alexander has an overwhelming 8-1 record against Antetokounmpo, and finally won his first game against Antetokounmpo in this game.
Performance in this game
Despite the impact of fatigue on his efficiency, Alexander maintained his offensive output and showed the style of a star player. The Thunder team provided sufficient support when their core players were in a slump and ultimately won the game smoothly.
Summary
The Thunder successfully surrounded Antetokounmpo through the double tower tactic and team defense, and Alexander came to the fore at the critical moment to lead the team to victory. This game demonstrated the team strength and tactical diversity of the Thunder, laying a good foundation for future games.
