No occurrence in recent memory galvanized the Milwaukee Bucks into a contending team more than Game 6 of the Eastern Conference semifinals last May 17 against the Charlotte Hornets. Facing elimination on the road, the Bucks persevered to win the game and the series against a worthy playoff opponent.

Returning Friday night to the Charlotte Coliseum for the first time since that watershed event, the Bucks found a wholly different atmosphere. The building was more than half-empty, a stark contrast from the electric ambiance that permeated it that spring afternoon.

Still, the Bucks were able to rise above the relative indifference shown by this city toward the rematch and crush the Hornets, 105-89, Friday night with their best start to a game this season.