Antetokounmpo has 44 points, 14 rebounds, Bucks overcome Wembanyama, Spurs, 125-121

The first battle between Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo and San Antonio Spurs rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama exceeded the hype.

Antetokounmpo had 44 points and 14 rebounds and Milwaukee overcame an electric performance by Wembanyama on his 20th birthday to beat San Antonio 125-121 on Thursday night.

Wembanyama had 27 points, and Devin Vassell led the Spurs with 34.

"That was a fun game," Milwaukee coach Adrian Griffin said. "That was a fun game to coach, a fun game to watch. Two of the most unique, talented big men. I use that (big-man term) loosely because they are very versatile players. Man, that was fun. I thought Wemby was great, I thought Giannis was phenomenal."

Wembanyama's first meeting with Antetokounmpo was delayed by the French rookie's sprained ankle December 19 in Milwaukee, but it proved to be worth the wait.

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