NBA champions, the Milwaukee Bucks, received their championship rings on Tuesday night as they begun a new NBA season. Rings are usually presented to players of the winning team in their first match of the season. Captain Giannis Antetokounmpo has said that the journey is far from over. They kicked off the season on a high note as they defeated the Brooklyn Nets 127-104. Antetokounmpo scored 32 points as Khris Middleton and Pat Connaughton each added 20 points to allow the Bucks have their first win of the season. Nets coach, Steve Nash admitted that his side did not play a good game, saying “We weren’t very good. If you’re not playing at a high level against the champs, you’re not going to win.”

The Bucks and Nets have a more recent history, as both sides squared of in the second round of the playoff last season. Nets gave the Bucks quite the heat, but the Bucks were able to overcome them and made it to the end of season.

The Bucks had the lead for most part of the match after making an impressive start. From the second half, Bucks never dropped their lead below seven points. Bucks were missing some of their key players, including Bobby Portis and Semi Ojeleye, who are out on injury.  The Nets are also dealing with the Irving situation. Kylie Iverson has refused to get vaccinated and so would not play in all home games this season. His team has decided to keep him for now but it may not always be like this, as he would soon prove to be a burden.

The season has now officially started and would run regularly till the playoffs begin on April 16. The season is expected to end on June 19, which is the date of Game 7 of the NBA Finals.

Written by:  Leon Osamor