Bucks Beat Shorthanded Grizzlies Despite Giannis Absence

Milwaukee snaps two-game skid with 131-115 victory over Memphis.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 3:55am

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The Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 131-115 on Sunday, despite the absence of star player Giannis Antetokounmpo. Ryan Rollins led the Bucks with 24 points, while Rayan Rupert posted a triple-double for the shorthanded Grizzlies, who were missing several key players due to injuries.

Why it matters

The Bucks' victory over the Grizzlies, who have struggled mightily in recent weeks, helps Milwaukee stay in the playoff hunt in the Eastern Conference. However, the continued absence of Antetokounmpo, who has been critical of the team's decision to hold him out, remains a concern for the Bucks as they push for a postseason berth.

The details

The Bucks built a 19-point lead in the second quarter but couldn't maintain it, as the Grizzlies closed the first half on a 12-0 run to trim the deficit to 62-56. Rupert had a career-high 25 points in the first half. Milwaukee pulled away in the fourth quarter, going on a 14-1 run to take a 114-100 lead. The Bucks shot 60.2% from the field and 16-of-32 from 3-point range.

  • The Bucks snapped a two-game skid with the victory on Sunday, April 6, 2026.

The players

Ryan Rollins

A Bucks player who scored a team-high 24 points in the victory.

Rayan Rupert

A Grizzlies player who posted a 30-point triple-double, the third in franchise history.

Giannis Antetokounmpo

The Bucks' star player who missed his 11th straight game due to a left knee injury, despite publicly stating he was available to play.

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What’s next

The Bucks will look to build on this victory as they continue to push for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, while the Grizzlies will hope to get healthier and end their recent struggles.

The takeaway

This game highlights the Bucks' ability to win without their superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, but also raises questions about the team's handling of his injury and his public criticism of their decision to hold him out. The Grizzlies' shorthanded roster due to injuries demonstrates the challenges they have faced in a difficult season.