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.

Alex Lasry, the son of Bucks owner Marc Lasry, is a senior VP with the team but took a leave of absence to concentrate on his bid for the Senate seat.

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 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 checked out suspiciously early during recent games of the NBA Finals. He fessed up to why after Game 4.

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.