In front of a national television audience on Christmas, Antetokounmpo put up exactly the kind of numbers one would expect from him – 36 points, 12 rebounds and five assists – and the Milwaukee Bucks rallied in the closing minutes for a 117-113 victory over the Boston Celtics. The Celtics answered with five straight and opened the fourth with a 8-0 run, including six from Parker, who converted a three-point play to make it 102-90 with 10:15 to play. “We’re learning how we’re gonna finish games. So for us, we’ve got to take it as a good thing. We’re growing, so eventually we’ll get good at that area and we’ll then be able to take care of it.”

WES’ WINNING WAYS

Saturday was the first time in Matthews’ career that he played a home game on Christmas.

“She sure showed up didn’t she,” said Matthews, who with his nine points Saturday now has 31 in three games since returning from COVID-19 protocols.