Giannis Antetokounmpo and Joel Embiid went toe-to-toe before the All-Star break. Both superstars played strong games but the Philadelphia 76ers came out on top, beating the Milwaukee Bucks 123-120.

Antetokounmpo recorded 32 points, 11 rebounds, nine assists and three steals. Embiid tallied 42 points, 14 rebounds and five assists. He said that he lives for matchups against the Bucks' forward because of the challenge he provides. Antetokounmpo, who is never one to back down from a challenge himself, has mutual respect for the Sixers' star.

The Bucks head into the break fifth in the packed Eastern Conference with a 36-24 record. Several other teams have caught up to them, making the East a much tougher conference. Antetokounmpo shared a strong message with his team to stay resilient and get better.

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Milwaukee indeed has room to improve, particularly on defense. Serge Ibaka and DeAndre Bembry, who they respectively acquired at the trade deadline and in the buyout market, should be able to help a little. The Bucks are dealing with injuries to key. players, too. Resting during the break will be crucial as they look to work their way up the standings.

As long as the Bucks have Giannis, they will have the chance to make noise in the playoffs. Antetokounmpo is having another MVP-caliber season. The only thing holding back his case is the team's place in the standings. Regardless of where they end up, the Bucks will have a real shot at defending their title.