The Milwaukee Bucks beat the New York Knicks 121-111 to move to a 3-1 record on Tuesday night. Led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, the team has its first statement win of the 2025-26 NBA season. And one of the key factors in achieving victory was Kyle Kuzma, who played a pivotal role.
Since he arrived as part of a trade in February of this year, Kuz hasn’t made too big an impact in Milwaukee. But against the Knicks, he took on the challenge of guarding Karl-Anthony Towns. Despite the size mismatch, Kuzma held Towns to a paltry eight points on the night. And after the game, he explained how he was able to frustrate KAT.
Advertisement
MORE: Giannis Antetokounmpo makes bold Milwaukee promise during Bucks win
"I've been in the league long enough, played Towns long enough, to understand what he wants to do…Lot of time guys who are physical don't want you to be physical…probably frustrated him a little bit"
–– Kyle Kuzma on defending Karl-Anthony Towns (Knicks-career-low 8 points) pic.twitter.com/1xkEZQ8Nia
— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) October 29, 2025
“I’ve been in the league long enough, played Towns long enough, to understand what he wants to do,” Kuzma told reporters in the locker room after the game. “Being out there and just being physical, putting my body on him.
“Lots of times, when you’re playing guys who are physical, they don’t want you to be physical. So just bring that attitude and mentality to the game, probably frustrated him a little bit.”
Advertisement
New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns drives to the basket against Milwaukee Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
KAT has often been called out for his inability to handle physicality and tough-nosed defense. So, coming from the man who locked him up, this is definitely a bit of shade being thrown his way. Bucks fans will hope this unlocks Kuzma; they need him to play like a legitimate third option if they’re going to make it out of the East this year.
—Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead—
WEDNESDAY ROUNDUP:Blue Jays even up World Series, NBA officiating takes center stage, and more
Advertisement
NCAAF:Predicting the 12 College Football Playoff teams after Week 9
NFL:Updated 2026 NFL Draft order after Week 8
NBA:Dallas Mavericks cautious about Cooper Flagg after playing through shoulder injury
VIRAL:Justin Herbert’s girlfriend Madison Beer turns heads as sultry sailor at Halloween party