Author: Jeff Zillgitt, USA TODAY

The Milwaukee Bucks’ past failures have hardened this team and they can wrap up an NBA title Tuesday with a home win against the Phoenix Suns.

The Bucks are one win away from the franchise’s first NBA title in 50 years after beating the Suns 123-119 in Game 5.

Bucks reserve Thanasis Antetokounmpo, assistant Josh Oppenheimer and referee Sean Wright were ruled out due to COVID health and safety protocols.

Giannis Antetokounmpo has learned to set aside his ego and pride to have fun and enjoy the moment while dominating in the NBA Finals.

Wes Unseld Jr. is coming home to Washington, D.C. to lead the franchise his father played for, coached and ran as an executive.

Khris Middleton rarely shows emotion on the court, but the calm demeanor masks an intensity that was on display to help the Bucks take Game 4.

Khris Middleton scored 40 points and Giannis Antetokounmpo had 26 as the Bucks overcame a late nine-point deficit for a 109-103 win to tie the series.

Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton both joined the Bucks in 2013 and formed an unlikely dynamic duo in helping the Bucks reach the NBA Finals.

From 1980-91, the Bucks reached the East finals three times and the conference semifinals six times. Boston and Philadelphia often stood in the way.

Giannis Antetokounmpo was unstoppable, pouring in 41 points on 14-of-23 shooting to lead Milwaukee to a 120-100 win that cut Phoenix’s lead to 2-1.