Episode 1 - Bucks vs. the World - For the Good of the Game

In 1987, the Milwaukee Bucks hosted the 1987 McDonald’s Open, a groundbreaking tournament that brought together the Bucks, the Soviet Union national team, and EuroLeague champion Tracer Milan — marking the first collaboration between the NBA and FIBA.

Narrated by Charlie Berens, Episode 1 of Bucks vs. the World explores how the tournament came together, why Milwaukee was chosen, and how Cold War politics shaped one of the most consequential moments in basketball history. The episode builds to the Bucks’ dramatic opening matchup with Tracer Milan, setting the stage for a battle that would change the game forever.