The Milwaukee Bucks have faced significant challenges during the 2025-26 NBA season, struggling to meet the high expectations set with Giannis Antetokounmpo on their roster. Coming into Thursday’s game, the Bucks held a 22-30 record and were fourth in the Central Division. Antetokounmpo himself has played in just 30 games this season, sidelined by a series of injuries affecting his knee, shoulder, ankle, groin, and calf, which has greatly impacted the team’s performance.
Ousmane Dieng Sparks Bucks with a Remarkable Game
While the Bucks have been searching for answers in Antetokounmpo’s absence, rookie Ousmane Dieng delivered a breakout performance against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. In only his third game with Milwaukee, Dieng logged 19 points, 11 rebounds, six assists, four blocks, three made three-pointers, and one steal, all without a single turnover in 36 minutes of play. His balanced and efficient showing contributed significantly to the Bucks’ unexpected 110-93 victory over the Thunder.
A Historic Statistical Achievement
Dieng’s stat line made him only the second player in Bucks history to record at least 10 rebounds, five assists, three three-pointers, and zero turnovers in a game. This achievement places him alongside some of the franchise’s greatest names, including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Considering Milwaukee’s storied history, Dieng’s performance is indeed noteworthy.
From a Struggling Rookie to a Key Contributor
Drafted 11th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks, Dieng never played a game for New York and spent most of his early career with Oklahoma City, where playing time was limited. Following a trade last week, which sent Mason Plumlee to the Thunder, Nick Richards to Charlotte, and Cole Anthony and Amir Coffey to Phoenix, Dieng arrived in Milwaukee. Until now, his career averages stood at no more than five points and two rebounds per game, but his recent output suggests a possible change in trajectory.
Future Prospects for Dieng and the Bucks
As Giannis Antetokounmpo continues his recovery, Milwaukee seems ready to utilize Dieng extensively, giving him ample opportunity to develop and contribute. At just 22 years old, Dieng’s potential impact on the Bucks’ lineup appears promising, whether during Giannis’s absence or upon his eventual return. His recent display signals that the Bucks may have found a valuable asset to bolster the team during a difficult stretch of the season, providing hope for better results moving forward.
Bucks to record 10+ REB, 5+ AST, 3+ BLK, 3+ 3P and 0 TOV in a game:
— Giannis
— Ousmane DiengDieng has only played 3 games with Milwaukee. pic.twitter.com/fKDir14vKj
— StatMuse (@statmuse) February 13, 2026
