Noah Clowney shines in Nets’ historic triumph over Bucks
In a stunning display of dominance, the Brooklyn Nets secured a 127-82 victory against the Milwaukee Bucks, matching the largest margin of victory in the franchise’s history. The team showcased its best defensive performance of the season, with nine players contributing to the scoring effort, each reaching double figures. Among them, Noah Clowney emerged as a standout, scoring 16 points in a game that exemplified his rapid development.
Clowney’s Remarkable Performance
Clowney’s offensive output was marked by efficiency, as he connected on 4 of 9 attempts from the field and was flawless from the free-throw line, going 4-for-4. Demonstrating his long-range shooting prowess, he launched eight three-point attempts, converting half of them. His defensive impact was equally notable; Clowney led the team with two blocks, leveraging his impressive 7-foot-3 wingspan to make his presence felt in the paint.
Since stepping into the starting lineup in early November, Clowney has seized every opportunity, evolving into a critical component of the Nets’ rotation. At just 21 years old, he has established himself as a three-and-D specialist, capable of igniting the offense in an instant. His third-quarter explosion, where he scored 14 of his 16 points, was a pivotal moment in the game, showcasing his ability to change the momentum with his shooting.
A Newfound Confidence
This season, Clowney has brought a quiet confidence to his game that was previously absent. Although he has struggled with efficiency in extended minutes in the past, he is now shooting over 35% from three-point range on more than six attempts per game. Over his last ten outings, he has posted an impressive true shooting percentage of 63.8%. The Nets currently rank seventh in the league for three-point makes per game, and Clowney has been instrumental in this success, recording the second-most three-pointers on the team.
Beyond his shooting improvements, Clowney’s increased free-throw rate illustrates his growth as a well-rounded offensive player. He has more than doubled his free-throw attempts per game compared to last season and is converting at a commendable 82.6% rate. While games like the one against Milwaukee may affect the Nets’ draft positioning in 2026, they serve as significant confidence boosters for the team and its young players.
Coaching and Development
Clowney’s journey in the NBA has been one of transformation. Drafted as a project player, he has flourished under the guidance of head coach Jordi Fernandez, who, despite not drafting him, has provided ample opportunity for growth. Known for being both supportive and demanding, Fernandez has challenged Clowney to elevate his game, and thus far, the young forward has exceeded expectations.
As Clowney continues to produce nights of efficient scoring from beyond the arc, he will not only enhance his own game but also create more opportunities for his teammates to penetrate defenses. The promise he has shown this season hints at a bright future, one where he could become a key player for the Nets in the years to come.
