The Brooklyn Nets strengthened their play-off hopes with a 133-128 win over the NBA-leading Milwaukee Bucks.

In a back-and-forth game, D'Angelo Russell starred for the Nets, finishing with 25 points and 10 assists, while seven of his team-mates scored at least 10 points.

The Bucks, who ensured they will head into the play-offs as the top seed against Philadephia earlier in the week, made it a difficult game, however, outstripping the Nets' lead twice before a 7-0 run in the final two minutes sealed the win for the visitors.

The victory moved the Nets – with a 40-40 record – into a tie for sixth place in the Eastern Conference, but holding the tie-breaker advantage over the Orlando Magic, and half a game ahead of the Detroit Pistons in eighth.

In the night's other game, the Philadelphia 76ers tightened their grip on the third seed with a 116-96 win over the Chicago Bulls.

Joel Embiid scored 20 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, while JJ Redick scored 23 to return the 76ers to winning ways after three straight defeats.

Philadelphia now hold a two-game lead over the Boston Celtics for the third spot in the East with two games to go.