Summer League California Classic: Bucks 69 Nets 89

Breakdown Game 2 of the California Classic

by Aiden Fermaner

10/07/26

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The Bucks fall in their first loss of the California Classic. Brandon Boston and Kira Lewis again led the Bucks, along with Zack Austin, highlighting more of his skill set. No Brayden Burries or Nate Ament yet again.

First Quarter

Zack Austin started off again, showing his great athleticism and strength with a great dunk and a strong tip-in over the Nets' big man. He also goes on to hit a quick, confident three. He is 6'5, but looks bigger and plays much bigger than his size. He looks to be a very interesting prospect that could excel in the NBA if he can be a consistent shooter and use his athleticism to make an impact on the defensive end. Brandon Boston continues to look silky smooth with 7 in the first quarter and still looks like he is at another level than the guys he comes up against.

Second Quarter

There wasn’t much to reference in the second quarter, as it was a 27- 12 loss. The Bucks struggled in every stat, and the Nets, to their credit, had a really good quarter, getting on the glass at both ends and converting at a decent clip, especially from 3, hitting 5 of 9 for the quarter. Zack Austin had another audacious slam to add to his highlight reel this Summer League, but again, he struggles to apply that athleticism defensively, which I would really like to see from him. John Butler locked away 3 blocks for the half.

Third Quarter

A better quarter than the last, winning a close one 18-16. Brandon Boston warmed back up after a slow second quarter, adding another 7 points to his 14-point game so far. Kira Lewis heated up, getting 5 and looking influential on the court as the lead guard running the offence. The Bucks go down 72-54 through the first 3 quarters.

Fourth Quarter

It was a low-scoring fourth quarter for both teams, the Nets closing it out 17-15. Kobe Stewart was one of the only shining lights for this quarter, pouring in 8 points with 2 threes and ending the game with 8 rebounds to go along with his 13 points.

MVP

Kira Lewis and Brandon Boston continued their good form. Zack Austin added some more highlights of his skill set this game, and Kobe Stewart was consistent for the game, scoring and rebounding, but the MVP will be going to Brandon Boston again. He had 18 points on 7/13 from the field and looked as though he had full control over the game every time he had the ball, yet again. I'm sure good things will come for Brandon Boston if he continues this good form throughout the Summer League.