Bucks Suffer Defeat to Rockets, Struggling with Free Throws

The Milwaukee Bucks faced a disappointing setback against the Houston Rockets on November 9, 2025, losing 122-115 at home. After establishing a strong 14-point lead, the Bucks faltered in the fourth quarter, unable to secure their seventh win of the NBA regular season. The defeat highlighted both execution issues and persistent struggles at the free-throw line.

Milwaukee had a commendable shooting performance from the field, finishing with an impressive 55.7 percent accuracy. They also made 13 of their 29 attempts from three-point range, showcasing their offensive capabilities. However, their free-throw shooting left much to be desired, as they converted only 14 of 24 attempts, resulting in a dismal 58.3 percent success rate. In contrast, the Rockets capitalized on their opportunities, going 16 for 21 from the foul line, or 76.2 percent.

Free-Throw Struggles Plague the Bucks

The Bucks’ free-throw woes have become a significant concern this season. According to Nathan Marzion of the Bucks University Podcast, Milwaukee now holds the league’s lowest free-throw percentage at 68.9 percent. Notably, this statistic is not solely attributed to their star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo. When excluding his performance, the team still averages a subpar 76.2 percent, which ranks as the eighth worst in the NBA.

In the game against Houston, Antetokounmpo converted just 9 of 14 free-throw attempts, missing four of six in the crucial fourth quarter. Despite his overall skill set, his challenges at the line have drawn attention, given that he consistently leads the Bucks in free throws taken. Yet, the issue extends beyond him, affecting the team’s overall performance and contributing to their current standings.

Head coach Doc Rivers expressed his frustration with the team’s execution in the closing moments of the game. He emphasized the need for improvement in critical areas, particularly in maintaining composure during high-pressure situations. The Bucks will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for upcoming matches, aiming to address their shooting inconsistencies and build momentum as the season progresses.

The loss to the Rockets serves as a reminder for Milwaukee that solid shooting from the field does not compensate for struggles at the free-throw line. As they navigate through the 2025-26 season, the team will look to build on their strengths while addressing the fundamental aspects of their game that continue to hinder their success.