Giannis Antetokounmpo insists the resurgent Milwaukee Bucks “leave Las Vegas a better team” after leading his team to a stunning 97-81 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Cup title game.

The 30-year-old was named tournament MVP for his dominant performance in which he scored 26 points along with 19 rebounds and 10 assists as the Bucks made 17 three-pointers to handily defeat a subdued Thunder.

Having won just two of their first 10 games, the Bucks have the best record in the NBA at 12-3 (NBA Cup games don’t count in the official rankings) and they held their rivals to a season-low 81 on Tuesday Only scored 31 points in the second half.

The emphatic loss to the Thunder was their 13th win in their last 16 games and while it won’t be part of the official record, Antetokounmpo believes it was crucial for his team to continue their good form in the tournament.

“It was a great trip. This was a six day trip with everyone locked in on time for filming and focused on the walkthroughs. We were able to be so sharp in training,” he said.

“We’re getting better and we know we’re leaving Vegas a better team. I am so proud of this group.

“We just have to stay humble and keep improving. We have a lot of basketball ahead of us. We play Cleveland on Friday. Very, very good team. They will wait for us.

“At the moment, emotions are at an all-time high. We have to bring it down, be humble. When we leave here tomorrow, we’re going to go back to the gym, get fit and hope we can win against the Cavs.

“There is another title to chase, the work is not done yet but this was still a trophy moment to celebrate.”