Milwaukee City Wire

The Milwaukee men's basketball team faced a tough defeat against Oakland in a postseason game at the Klotsche Center. The Panthers, who held a 21-11 record, fought back from a 13-point deficit but ultimately fell short, losing 72-64 to the Golden Grizzlies (16-17). Despite the efforts of Themus Fulks, who scored 20 points and provided six assists, Milwaukee could not capitalize on key opportunities.

"Congratulations to Oakland," said head coach Bart Lundy. "Coach Kampe is a class act and an excellent coach. He has kind of had our number and ends our season for the second year in a row."

The game was marked by significant performances from both teams. Allen David Mukeba led Oakland with 21 points on perfect shooting, while Tuburu Naivalurua added 20 points for the visitors. For Milwaukee, Jamichael Stillwell contributed 16 points and eight rebounds, AJ McKee scored 13 points, and John Lovelace Jr. added 11 points off the bench.

Reflecting on the loss, Lundy commented, "I think that is the hard thing; we leave the gym, we leave the season knowing that we didn't play our best game." He acknowledged difficulties in making crucial plays such as free throws and open shots.

The Panthers found themselves trailing early but managed to close the gap before halftime. However, despite closing within two points late in the game, Jaylen Jones of Oakland sank a critical three-pointer with less than a minute remaining to secure their victory.

Milwaukee's campaign ends after winning over 20 games for three consecutive seasons. Coach Lundy expressed pride in his team's achievements despite their disappointment: "They have a lot to be proud of … those seniors have a lot to be proud of."

Both teams shot an identical percentage from the floor (51.9 percent), but Oakland's accuracy at the free throw line (9-of-9) contrasted sharply with Milwaukee's struggles (3-of-12).

There remains a possibility for Milwaukee to participate in another postseason tournament through invitation.