Giannis Antetokounmpo averaged 32.0 minutes per game across the 7 games he played for Greece in EuroBasket 2025 but in fact only faced one serious opponent, Turkey, where he failed in a most spectacular way. He was extremely lucky and wise to sit out the game vs Nurkic where he would have lost anyway. But let’s look at other EuroBasket 25 stats.
First of all Greece is still 8th in FIBA power rankings. Turkey went up a lot, Greece didn’t. Why? Because Greece clearly did not deserve a medal! If they had met any of the other teams above them in the rankings in a knock out stage (other perhaps than Spain and Lithuania) they would have lost. They were extremely lucky with the brackets and injuries of opponents.
Top Scorers (Total Points) Luka Dončić – Slovenia 243
Players with many less games are at the top of all categories in fact
Giannis also had 3.7 turnovers per game and as usual was terrible from the free throw line.
So how did he dominate the conversations? After all just one
bronze medal after 11 years of trying is a pretty pathetic achievement for someone who says he is one of the best players in the world. Giannis really milked sensationalism. Whether discussing death threats (ludicrous, all famous people get them all the time but don’t make a fuss about it) or acting all emotional upon winning the bronze, Giannis has also been busy enjoying fake news about his charity work. An extremely popular viral “news item” on social media claimed he donated his entire “25 million signing on bonus” which of course is 100% untrue on every level.
Giannis was also careful to pick when and how he played. He avoided Nurkic, knowing he would be obliterated if he played that game. He
strategically showed up when he knew he could do his thing only. And the one time he needed to be “the
best”, against the only decent team Greece faced, Turkey wiped him out completely easily. For those desperate to idolise him it was yet another minor misfortune (as it always is since 2021, every time he faces a more serious opponent) and they quickly focused on the win against Finland instead.
Now to the NBA, same recipe. He will dominate his personal stats, lose to the better teams and make an early playoff exit. He will indirectly blame his roster as usual and then the summer party of trade talks. It is never Giannis’ fault. After all these years in the NBA and all these years with the Greek national team, no, it’s not his fault. It’s everyone and everything else always, eh?
Bracket Luck, Opponent Injuries, and Giannis’ Big-Game Blues
As the confetti settled in Riga, Latvia, on September 14, 2025, Greece’s national basketball team stood on the podium, bronze medals gleaming around their necks. It was their first EuroBasket medal in 16 years, a triumphant return to Europe’s elite basketball stage since Vassilis Spanoulis led them to bronze in 2009. Giannis Antetokounmpo, the two-time NBA MVP and undisputed leader of the team, was emotional in the post-game presser, calling it “probably the greatest accomplishment in my life.” The 92-89 thriller over Finland in the bronze medal game capped a rollercoaster tournament for the Greeks, with Giannis dropping 30 points and snagging 17 rebounds to seal the deal. Fans back home erupted in celebration, and rightfully so—representing Greece on the international stage is no small feat.
But let’s pump the brakes on the euphoria for a moment. While Greece’s run was inspiring, a closer look at the tournament reveals just how much luck factored into their podium finish. The bracket draw handed them a relatively soft path through the knockout stages, sparing them from several superior teams until it was too late. Opponent injuries provided additional breaks, weakening key rivals at crucial moments. And when they finally faced a genuine powerhouse in the semifinals—Turkey—the cracks in Greece’s armor showed, particularly with Giannis Antetokounmpo reverting to his all-too-familiar pattern of underperforming in high-stakes international games. Let’s face it: Greece was not the third best team of the tournament. Not even the 6th best team. They would have lost a knock out game against Serbia, France, Bosnia or other teams. They were just lucky they didn’t.
(Greece in the FIBA power rankings, as the 8th best European team. We all know that)
The Bracket Lottery: Dodging Bullets in the Knockout Draw
EuroBasket 2025 featured 24 teams divided into four groups, with the top four from each advancing to a round of 16 in Riga. From there, it was single-elimination knockout basketball—no second chances. Greece, placed in Group C in Limassol, Cyprus, navigated the group stage with a mix of grit and Giannis magic. They stunned defending champions Spain in a key win, but also dropped a game to Bosnia and Herzegovina without their star due to knee discomfort. Finishing strong, they advanced to the knockout rounds, where the real luck kicked in.
The round of 16 matchup was a gift: Greece drew Israel, a solid but far from elite squad that barely scraped out of Group D. Giannis exploded for 37 points in an 84-79 victory, but let’s be real—Israel isn’t the kind of opponent that tests a medal contender’s depth. They were the leftovers from a group that saw powerhouses like France and Slovenia advance with ease. Meanwhile, on the other side of the bracket, heavy hitters were duking it out early. Serbia, loaded with NBA talent like Nikola Jokić’s supporting cast, faced a tough Latvia in the round of 16. Finland, powered by Lauri Markkanen, took on a battle-hardened Georgia. And Germany, the eventual champions, cruised past weaker opposition but were primed for deeper clashes.
Greece’s quarterfinal draw? Lithuania, a basketball-mad nation with a storied history, but one that was conveniently hobbled (more on that later). The Greeks pulled out an 87-76 win, with Giannis scoring 29 points and the team dominating fast breaks 20-4. Impressive, sure, but Lithuania wasn’t at full strength, and avoiding a semifinal showdown with the likes of Serbia or a full-powered France was a massive break. France, perennial contenders with Victor Wembanyama and Rudy Gobert, were shockingly eliminated in the round of 16 by Georgia—an upset fueled by France’s own injury woes, including Alex Sarr sidelined. Slovenia, led by Luka Dončić, bowed out early too, knocked out in a bracket that funneled the top seeds away from Greece’s path.
The semifinal against Turkey was the first time Greece truly collided with a top-tier team, and it was a 94-68 blowout loss that exposed their limitations. Had the draw been less forgiving—say, a quarterfinal against Germany or a round of 16 rematch with a healthy Spain—Greece might not have sniffed the semifinals. The bracket’s geography worked in their favor: Their half featured Israel and a depleted Lithuania, while the other side absorbed the brunt of the tournament’s elite talent. Serbia fell to Finland in the quarters, and Germany methodically dismantled everyone in their way en route to gold. Greece essentially lucked into a path that maximized Giannis’ individual brilliance against lesser foes while minimizing team tests until the end.
Stage
Greece’s Opponent
Outcome
Why It Was Lucky
Round of 16
Israel
84-79 Win
Weaker team from a diluted group; no major stars to challenge Greece’s interior dominance.
Quarterfinals
Lithuania
87-76 Win
Historic powerhouse, but ravaged by injuries (see below); avoided full-strength Serbia or France.
Semifinals
Turkey
68-94 Loss
First elite matchup; bracket shielded them from earlier clashes with Germany or Finland.
Bronze Medal
Finland
92-89 Win
Close game against a strong but fatigued 4th-place team; revenge for potential earlier bracket pitfalls.
This table highlights how Greece’s knockout run was cushioned by the draw. Without it, their bronze dream might have ended in the quarters.
Lucky Breaks from Opponent Injuries: The Hidden Edge
EuroBasket 2025 was dubbed “EuroInjuries” by some pundits, with a staggering number of stars sidelined across the tournament. Greece wasn’t immune—Giannis missed a group game with knee issues—but their opponents suffered even more, tilting key games in their favor.
Start with the quarterfinals against Lithuania. The Balts entered the matchup missing Rokas Jokubaitis, their promising point guard, who suffered a serious knee injury early in the tournament and was ruled out for the rest. Margiris Normantas, another key backcourt option, twisted his ankle, further depleting their guard rotation. Lithuania’s offense, which relies on sharp ball movement and perimeter shooting, sputtered without these players, allowing Greece to control the pace and exploit mismatches inside. A full-strength Lithuania—potentially with Jokubaitis orchestrating alongside veterans like Jonas Valančiūnas—could have forced Giannis into more double-teams and disrupted Greece’s rhythm. Instead, the Greeks feasted on easy buckets, shooting 63% from two-point range.
In the round of 16, Israel wasn’t decimated, but the broader injury wave hit teams that could have altered the bracket. For instance, if France (missing Alex Sarr and others) had advanced, they might have crossed paths with Greece later. Even in the bronze game, Finland was without some depth pieces, though Lauri Markkanen gutted it out. Markkanen’s Utah Jazz teammate Walker Kessler was limited by a minor tweak, reducing Finland’s rim protection in the clutch moments where Greece pulled away.
The semifinals against Turkey offered a glimmer of hope for Greece via injuries: Veteran wing Cedi Osman, a key scorer for the Turks, was battling swelling in his leg and could barely put weight on it ahead of the game. Coach Ergin Ataman called it “alarming,” and Osman was limited to spot minutes. But Turkey’s depth, led by Alperen Şengün’s dominant 25-point, 12-rebound performance, overwhelmed Greece anyway. Still, without Osman’s full contribution, one wonders if the blowout would have been as lopsided—though it didn’t matter for Greece’s luck narrative, as it propelled them to the easier bronze matchup.
These injuries weren’t isolated; the tournament saw Bogdan Bogdanović (Serbia) out with a hamstring pull, Johannes Voigtmann (Germany) sidelined, and more, creating chaos that indirectly benefited Greece by eliminating or weakening potential bracket foes. It’s basketball’s cruel reality: One tweak can swing a medal.
The Turkey Wake-Up Call: Giannis, the Non-Factor in Crunch Time
If the bracket and injuries were Greece’s luck charms, the semifinal against Turkey was the reality check—and it centered on Giannis Antetokounmpo. The “Greek Freak” had been a monster throughout the tournament, averaging over 25 points and double-digit rebounds, carrying Greece on his broad shoulders. But against a serious contender? He vanished.
Turkey dismantled Greece 94-68, holding the two-time MVP to a tournament-low 12 points on 6-of-13 shooting. He grabbed 12 boards and dished 5 assists, but his plus/minus was a brutal -30, and he was visibly frustrated by constant double- and triple-teams. Ercan Osmani, Turkey’s defensive specialist, clamped down on him, forcing turnovers (Greece had four early) and limiting his drives. Şengün owned the paint, outdueling Giannis in a battle of bigs that highlighted Greece’s lack of secondary options.
This isn’t new for Giannis in international play. He’s a playoff beast in the NBA, but FIBA games against top teams often see him neutralized—remember his muted Olympics performances or past EuroBaskets where defenses packed the lane and dared teammates to shoot? Against Turkey, Greece’s supporting cast (Thomas Walkup, Kostas Papanikolaou) couldn’t punish the help defense, leading to a 26-point drubbing. It took the easier bronze game for Giannis to rediscover his form, but the semifinal exposed that Greece’s success hinged on him feasting against inferior competition. If they’d faced Germany earlier—Dennis Schröder’s MVP squad that thrived on team basketball—Giannis might have been similarly stifled, ending their run prematurely.
Celebrate, But Acknowledge the Luck
Greece’s bronze is a proud moment, a testament to Spanoulis’ coaching and Giannis’ leadership. They overcame group-stage hiccups, including playing without their star, and delivered in the bronze thriller. But stripping away the hype, their path was greased by a favorable bracket that sidestepped powerhouses like a healthy France or Serbia until the semis. Opponent injuries, from Lithuania’s backcourt woes to Turkey’s Osman question mark, provided unearned edges. And when push came to shove against Turkey, Giannis’ big-game international jitters reminded everyone that Greece isn’t a dynasty—they’re a one-man show that lucked into the spotlight.
In basketball, luck is part of the game, but in a tournament this stacked, it can make all the difference between podium glory and early exit. Greece should savor the bronze; they earned the celebration, even if fortune lent a helping hand. What’s next for the Greeks? With Giannis entering his prime, a deeper roster could turn luck into legacy. For now, though, this feels like the basketball gods smiling on Athens on the back of a seriously badly organised tournament.
Giannis Antetokounmpo notably avoided playing against Jusuf Nurkic and Bosnia and Herzegovina in today’s EuroBasket matchup, fueling speculation that he is wary of Nurkic’s defensive prowess and psychological edge over him. Historically, Nurkic has succeeded in neutralizing Giannis’s strengths, both in the NBA and FIBA play, particularly by forcing Giannis into uncomfortable jump shots instead of easy transition dunks or layups.
Giannis’ Fear Factor: Why the Greek Freak Dodged Nurkic in Today’s EuroBasket Clash
In the high-stakes world of international basketball, where egos clash as hard as bodies in the paint, today’s EuroBasket 2025 matchup between Greece and Bosnia and Herzegovina was supposed to be a blockbuster. Greece, powered by NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, facing off against Bosnia’s rugged big man Jusuf Nurkic. But in a move that raised eyebrows across the basketball universe, Giannis sat out. Coincidence? Or is there something deeper—a lingering fear of the “Bosnian Beast” that has haunted Giannis in past encounters? Let’s dive into the history, the stats, and the nitty-gritty of why Giannis just can’t seem to shake Nurkic when it matters most.
The “Avoidance” Today: A Strategic Rest or Tactical Retreat?
EuroBasket 2025 has been Giannis’ playground so far. He’s been dropping monster lines—averaging 29 points and 7.5 rebounds on absurd efficiency—helping Greece cruise through their group stage games. But today, against Bosnia, the Greek Freak was nowhere to be seen on the court. Officially, it’s labeled as “rest” after a back-to-back, but come on. This isn’t just any opponent; it’s Nurkic, the guy who’s given Giannis fits in the NBA. With Greece already qualified for the Round of 16, why risk it against a defender who’s built like a brick wall and has a history of frustrating the two-time MVP? It’s not hard to connect the dots: Giannis knows Nurkic’s game all too well, and he didn’t want to deal with it on the international stage, where the rules tilt even more in favor of physical, paint-clogging bigs like Nurkic.
Nurkic himself fueled the fire pre-game, outlining a plan to “build a wall” around Giannis, forcing him into jump shots and slowing his transition dominance. “Stop him in transition and live with his shots,” Nurkic said, pointing out how Giannis has struggled against packed defenses in past EuroBaskets. And let’s be real—without the NBA’s defensive three-second rule, Nurkic can camp in the lane all day, turning the paint into a no-fly zone for Giannis’ euro-steps and dunks. If that’s not a recipe for avoidance, what is?
Digging into the Past: Nurkic’s Upper Hand in Key Matchups
Giannis may have an 8-2 overall record against Nurkic in their 10 NBA head-to-heads, but don’t let that fool you. When Nurkic’s teams have won, it’s often because he’s neutralized Giannis’ explosiveness, forcing him into inefficient nights or drawing him into foul trouble. Let’s break down the tape on their encounters, focusing on those moments where Nurkic clearly got under Giannis’ skin.
Here’s a table summarizing their head-to-head games, highlighting points, rebounds, and the outcomes:
Date
Teams (Winner First)
Score
Giannis Stats (PTS-REB-AST-STL-BLK)
Nurkic Stats (PTS-REB-AST-STL-BLK)
Key Notes
Feb. 20, 2015
Bucks vs Nuggets
89-81
10-9-1-1-0
11-15-2-2-3
Nurkic dominates the glass; Giannis held to single-digit points.
Mar. 21, 2017
Bucks vs Trail Blazers
93-90
22-8-3-0-2
11-14-1-2-2
Close game; Nurkic’s blocks disrupt Giannis’ drives.
Oct. 21, 2017
Bucks vs Trail Blazers
113-110
44-8-4-2-2
17-11-3-0-3
Giannis explodes, but Nurkic holds his own with blocks.
Nov. 30, 2017
Bucks vs Trail Blazers
103-91
20-9-5-3-3
25-11-1-3-1
Nurkic outscores Giannis; Blazers win as Nurkic owns the paint.
Bucks blowout, but Nurkic limits Giannis’ impact early.
Apr. 02, 2021
Bucks vs Trail Blazers
127-109
47-12-2-1-3
9-11-3-1-0
Giannis dominates, but Nurkic’s presence forces tough shots.
Feb. 05, 2022
Bucks vs Trail Blazers
137-108
29-9-6-0-1
11-10-3-0-2
Bucks win big; Nurkic battles on boards.
Nov. 21, 2022
Bucks vs Trail Blazers
119-111
37-7-6-2-0
16-10-3-0-0
Close; Nurkic’s rebounding keeps it competitive.
Feb. 06, 2024
Suns vs Bucks
114-106
34-10-6-0-0
10-10-4-2-0
Suns win; Nurkic’s defense key in containing Giannis late.
Look closely: In the two games where Nurkic’s teams came out on top (Nov. 6, 2018, and Feb. 6, 2024), Giannis averaged 28.5 points but shot inefficiently, turning the ball over and getting frustrated by Nurkic’s physicality. Nurkic, meanwhile, averaged double-doubles (11 points, 9.5 rebounds) while dishing out assists and steals, showing his all-around impact. Even in losses, Nurkic often out-rebounded Giannis (6 out of 10 games) and blocked more shots (5 out of 10), proving he’s no pushover.
Nurkic’s standout performance came on Nov. 30, 2017, when he dropped 25 points on Giannis’ Bucks, outscoring the Greek star and leading Portland to victory. Giannis admitted post-game that Nurkic’s size and strength made it tough to get to the rim easily. Fast-forward to their most recent clash in 2024, where Nurkic’s Suns upset the Bucks—Giannis put up 34, but Nurkic’s defensive switches and rebounding (10 boards) were pivotal in Phoenix’s comeback.
Why Giannis Can’t Get Past Nurkic: The Breakdown
So, why does a player as freakishly athletic as Giannis struggle against Nurkic? It boils down to physics, strategy, and mindset.
Physical Matchup Nightmare: At 7 feet and 290 pounds, Nurkic is one of the few bigs who can match Giannis’ blend of size, strength, and agility. Giannis thrives on bullying smaller defenders, but Nurkic doesn’t budge. He’s a classic drop-big defender who anchors the paint, using his wide frame to absorb contact and force Giannis into contested hooks or fades. In FIBA rules, without the three-second violation, Nurkic can loiter under the basket, turning Giannis’ drives into traffic jams.
Defensive IQ and Versatility: Nurkic isn’t just a statue; he’s got quick hands (averaging 1.0 steals per matchup) and elite rim protection (1.3 blocks). He anticipates Giannis’ euro-steps and spin moves, often swatting shots or forcing turnovers. Analysis from their games shows Giannis’ field goal percentage drops around 5-7% when Nurkic is the primary defender, per NBA tracking data. Nurkic’s ability to switch onto perimeter players also disrupts Greece’s (or Milwaukee’s) spacing, making it harder for Giannis to isolate.
Psychological Edge: There’s beef here. Nurkic has publicly called out Giannis’ weaknesses, like his mid-range shooting (Giannis is a career 28% from three, and even worse under pressure). In EuroBasket, where courts are smaller and defenses more physical, Giannis can’t rely on transition buckets—his bread and butter. Nurkic knows this: “In the NBA, he has so much space… Here it’s another game.” Giannis’ international struggles (e.g., Greece’s quarterfinal exits) often stem from teams building walls, and Nurkic is the perfect architect.
Rebounding and Second-Chance Battles: Nurkic edges Giannis on the boards in most games, denying offensive rebounds that fuel Giannis’ put-backs. This wears on Giannis mentally, as seen in games where he picks up frustration fouls trying to muscle through.
In short, Nurkic turns Giannis from a freight train into a stalled engine. Giannis can’t “get past him and score easily” because Nurkic clogs lanes, absorbs contact, and forces perimeter play—where Giannis is mortal.
Final Thoughts: Is This the Start of a Rivalry Renewal?
Giannis sitting out today might be spun as load management, but the timing screams avoidance. Nurkic has the tools to expose Giannis’ flaws, and with EuroBasket’s knockout stage looming, why risk a confidence-shaking performance? If they meet again in the tournament, expect fireworks—Nurkic’s trash talk has already lit the fuse. For now, though, it’s clear: when it comes to Nurkic, the Greek Freak has a Bosnian-sized phobia.
Past Matchups: Nurkic’s Defensive Tactics
Giannis’s regular season dominance in the NBA is partly thanks to wide spacing and shooters like Brook Lopez, which allows him to attack with freedom. In FIBA play, especially versus Nurkic:
Defensive three-second rules are absent, so Nurkic stays planted under the rim, cutting off drives.
Nurkic’s size, physicality, and discipline in positioning prevent Giannis from getting easy buckets in transition.
Forcing Giannis into midrange or three-point attempts, where his percentages dip dramatically, exposes his most vulnerable skill gap.
Psychological confidence is a factor: Nurkic’s continued public critique and challenges seem to frustrate Giannis, making him hesitant or even leading to rest decisions during key games—such as today’s absence.
The Latest Chapter: Ducking the Challenge?
In today’s match, Giannis sat while Greece played Bosnia and Herzegovina, intensifying the narrative that he is afraid to face Nurkic on the international stage. While rest and scheduling might be official reasons, the timing—given Nurkic’s strategic comments and historic defensive success—suggests Giannis may have chosen not to directly confront the Bosnian big man.
Nurkic is Giannis’s Kryptonite in FIBA Play
Giannis’s struggles against Nurkic’s defence stem from tactical limitations in international basketball and psychological warfare. Nurkic’s ability to block the paint, his physical matchup advantage, and his mental games combine to make him one of the few players who can truly limit Giannis’s scoring when it matters for the Greek national team. Every year, the evidence grows: when Nurkic is waiting, Giannis knows his path to dominance isn’t so simple.
I have analysed in detail how Giannis is the definition of a stat padder in the NBA. Click here to read it if you are not convinced, the man is literally in the definition of the term in Wikipedia. But today’s matchup against Georgia on August 31, 2025, raises some serious questions about his approach to these games. Greece cruised to a lopsided 94-53 victory, marking their third straight win in Group C and solidifying their status as group favorites. Yet, in what was essentially a glorified exhibition against an undermanned opponent, Giannis put up monster numbers: 27 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals in just 25 minutes of action. Impressive on paper, sure. But let’s call it what it is – blatant stat padding in a game that was never in doubt, all while unnecessarily risking injury ahead of a grueling NBA campaign.
The Game Breakdown: A Rout from the Jump
From the opening tip, this contest was mismatched. Greece jumped out to a 22-13 lead after the first quarter, thanks in large part to Giannis and teammate Konstantinos Mitoglou combining for the team’s first 14 points. By halftime, the score ballooned to 46-29, with Giannis already dropping 16 points alongside Mitoglou’s 15 – the duo alone outscoring Georgia’s entire team in the first half. The third quarter saw Greece extend their dominance to 69-41, and the final period was pure garbage time, ending in a 41-point blowout that ties for one of the largest margins in recent EuroBasket history.
Georgia, to their credit, was severely handicapped. Their NBA center Goga Bitadze – a former Bucks teammate of Giannis – didn’t play at all, leaving them without a true rim protector to challenge the Greek star inside. Captain Tornike Shengelia, another key veteran, was limited to just four minutes early on, further tilting the scales. Without these anchors, Georgia’s defense was porous, allowing Giannis to feast on easy drives, transition buckets, and even a perfect 1/1 from beyond the arc. He shot an efficient 8/10 on two-pointers and went 8/13 from the free-throw line, padding his totals with minimal resistance.
The progression tells the story of a non-competitive affair. Greece’s defense forced turnovers early (five steals in the first quarter alone), leading to fast breaks that Giannis converted effortlessly. By the end of the third, the game was so out of reach that coach Vassilis Spanoulis could have – and should have – kept his star on the bench. Instead, Giannis was subbed back in with 4:52 left in the fourth, adding a couple of free throws before finally being pulled for good. Why? The outcome was sealed. This wasn’t about winning; it was about numbers.
The Stat Padding Argument: Chasing Glory in Garbage Time
Look, Giannis is a generational talent, and his raw stats today are undeniable. But context matters. In a blowout like this, where Greece led by double digits from the first quarter and never looked back, there’s no need for your MVP-caliber player to log 25 minutes – especially when he returned in the fourth for what amounted to mop-up duty. This smacks of stat padding: intentionally staying in or re-entering a decided game to inflate personal lines.
Compare this to his approach in previous games. Just yesterday, against Cyprus, Giannis sat out entirely, allowing Greece to still win comfortably and move to 2-0. That was smart load management. Against Italy earlier in the tournament, he played 29 minutes and dropped 31 points in a closer 75-66 win – a scenario where his full effort was warranted. But Georgia? This was a team missing key players, struggling offensively (they scored just 53 points total), and posing zero threat. Giannis could have capped his night at 20 minutes with, say, 20 points, and no one would have batted an eye. Instead, he pushed for 27, including those late free throws, in what feels like a quest for headlines and highlight reels.
Critics might say he’s just competitive, playing hard regardless of the score. Fair point, but at what cost? Stat padding isn’t new in basketball – we’ve seen it from stars chasing triple-doubles or scoring titles. For Giannis, who already has two MVPs and a Finals ring, these international stats boost his legacy narrative. But in a tournament like EuroBasket, where Greece is favored to advance deep, why not preserve energy for tougher matchups ahead, like potential clashes with Spain or Italy?
The Injury Risk: Playing with Fire for No Reason
Here’s where it gets reckless. Giannis is no stranger to injuries. He’s dealt with knee issues, back problems, and various tweaks over his NBA career, missing chunks of seasons that have impacted the Bucks’ playoff runs. International play adds extra mileage – more games, travel, and physicality without the NBA’s load management protocols. In a meaningless blowout against Georgia, every extra minute on the court is a needless gamble.
Imagine this: A freak ankle roll in the fourth quarter while chasing a loose ball, or a hard foul from a frustrated Georgian player trying to make a statement. Boom – season derailed before it starts. The Bucks, who pay him over $48 million annually, must be sweating every time he suits up for Greece. And for what? To turn a 30-point lead into 41? The risk-reward ratio is absurdly skewed. EuroBasket is important for national pride, but Giannis’ health is paramount for his NBA legacy and Greece’s long-term success. Sitting out the Cyprus game showed he knows how to rest; applying that here would have been prudent.
This isn’t just hypothetical. We’ve seen stars like Joel Embiid or Kawhi Leonard manage minutes meticulously to avoid injury. Giannis, at 30 years old and with a history of wear and tear, should follow suit. Playing hero ball in a rout doesn’t make him tougher; it makes him vulnerable.
Despite the 27 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists, a few cracks in his game stood out, particularly his struggles at the free-throw line and a couple of lapses that could raise eyebrows.
Poor Free-Throw Shooting: Giannis went 8/13 from the free-throw line, a subpar 61.5% clip. For a player who draws contact and gets to the line frequently – especially in blowouts where fouls pile up – this inefficiency is glaring. Missing five free throws in a game where he only took 11 total shots (10 two-pointers, 1 three-pointer) meant he left easy points on the table. This echoes his career-long struggle, with a 70.3% NBA free-throw average, and could hurt Greece in tighter games against stronger EuroBasket foes. In fact this season in the NBA he shot his worse 3pt% and ft% in his career.
Unnecessary Fourth-Quarter Minutes: While not a statistical negative, Giannis’ decision (or the coaching staff’s) to return in the fourth quarter of a decided game was questionable. With Greece up by over 30 points, his brief stint to add free throws felt like chasing stats rather than preserving energy. This choice risked injury and showed a lack of discipline in managing his workload.
Limited Playmaking: Despite his 4 assists, Giannis could have done more to involve teammates in a game where Georgia’s defense collapsed early. His focus on scoring – particularly in transition and isolation – occasionally overshadowed opportunities to set up players like Konstantinos Mitoglou, who was hot early. In a blowout, leaning harder into playmaking could have further elevated Greece’s team chemistry.
Wrapping It Up: Time for Smarter Choices
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s performance today was dominant, no doubt – 27 points on efficient shooting, leading Greece to an easy win and keeping them atop Group C. Fans ate up the highlights, and social media buzzed with praise. But beneath the glamour, this game exposes a flaw: a tendency to pad stats in low-stakes scenarios, putting his body on the line for diminishing returns. Greece didn’t need him in the fourth; the tournament doesn’t hinge on one blowout’s margin. As EuroBasket progresses, Giannis should prioritize preservation over padding. His talent is too valuable to waste on games like this. Bucks fans, Greek supporters, and basketball purists alike should hope he dials it back – before an injury forces him to.
Q3 Giannis leaves the game , Greece ahead 7 points. Without Giannis, Greece ahead 11 points
Q4 Greece ahead 13 points when Giannis enters the game. With Giannis on the court that falls to only 9 points
The facts speak for themselves. The Greek national team plays much better without Giannis on the floor. No two ways around it.
But that isn’t even the start. He played virtually no defence all night, content to watch his team mates from the 3point line! Despite the fact that Italy had nobody even close to able to defend him. He made 5 turnovers, most of which were simply infantile. FIBA basketball emphasises team defence, with a smaller court and different rules (e.g., no defensive three-second violation), which can limit Giannis’ rim-protecting impact compared to the NBA. FIBA’s no defensive 3-second rule allows bigs to camp in the paint — a setup that should enhance Giannis’s elite help-defence capabilities. But no, he simply did not engage at all. If he’s not using that to deter drives or anchor switches, it’s a wasted asset.
Five turnovers are significant in a FIBA game, where possessions are fewer due to shorter game lengths (40 minutes) and a slower pace compared to the NBA. Turnovers directly give the opponent extra opportunities, which could explain why Greece’s lead shrank during periods when Giannis was on the court (e.g., from 9 to 4 points when he returned, or from 13 to 9 points in Q4) Many of these turnovers, weren’t forced — they were bad reads, over-dribbling, or trying to “force the issue.”
With Giannis, the offense too often bogs down into “give it to Giannis and watch” — which stagnates spacing, tempo, and creativity. If ever there was a clear case of Giannis simply getting highlights but in fact damaging his team, tonight was it. And all this on a night when most of the Italian players were terrible. Greece simply moves the ball better and plays better defence without him. It is a much more balanced team when it is not constantly looking for a Giannis highlight. Without Giannis, Greece plays more structured, disciplined team basketball — multiple ball-handlers, consistent help defense, and less reliance on any one star. This was against a weak Italian team. If Greece can’t dominate with Giannis against this, what happens against stronger competition? a bad fit for this system, this environment, and maybe even this version of the Greek team. And it’s a hard truth for fans and analysts to accept because of how dominant he is in the NBA. FIBA success requires fit, feel, and flexibility, not just individual talent. If Giannis isn’t adapting to the format — or worse, if the team has to bend around him and gets worse as a result — that’s a serious issue.
As the EuroBasket 2025 tournament looms, all eyes were on Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks superstar and Greece’s talisman, in the final preparation game against France on August 24, 2025. Expectations were sky-high for the two-time NBA MVP, especially after his explosive 25-point, 10-rebound performance in just 15 minutes against Latvia earlier in the preparation campaign. However, in this critical tune-up match against a formidable French squad, Giannis delivered a performance that left fans, analysts, and perhaps even his own team questioning his readiness for the upcoming tournament.
A Disappointing Statistical Output
Giannis, known for his dominance on both ends of the court, failed to live up to his “Greek Freak” moniker against France. In approximately 18 minutes of play, he managed only 12 points on a dismal 4-of-11 shooting from the field, including 0-for-3 from beyond the arc. His free-throw shooting, a persistent Achilles’ heel, was equally troubling, converting just 4 of 8 attempts. While he grabbed 7 rebounds and dished out 2 assists, these numbers pale in comparison to the double-double heroics he displayed against Latvia. More concerning were his 4 turnovers, which highlighted a lack of composure under France’s defensive pressure.
For a player of Giannis’ caliber, who averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists on 60.1% shooting in the 2024-25 NBA season, this performance was a significant step backward. The friendly against France was a chance to assert his dominance against a team considered one of the favorites for EuroBasket, yet he appeared out of sync and unable to impose his will on the game.
Struggles Against France’s Defensive Scheme
France, even without key NBA stars like Victor Wembanyama and Rudy Gobert, showcased a disciplined and physical defensive approach that seemed to rattle Giannis. The French frontcourt, led by players like Guerschon Yabusele and Mathias Lessort, effectively neutralized Giannis’ drives to the basket. They employed a strategy of crowding the paint and daring him to shoot from mid-range or beyond, areas where he has historically struggled. Giannis’ inability to adjust was glaring—his three-point attempts were ill-advised, and his mid-range game was non-existent, forcing him into contested drives that often ended in turnovers or blocked shots (he was blocked twice).
Moreover, France’s guards, such as Dennis Schröder (playing for Germany but a comparable defensive pest), pressured Greece’s ball-handlers, disrupting Giannis’ ability to receive the ball in advantageous positions. Without the support of key teammates like Kostas Sloukas, who was rested for this game, Giannis was left to create offense almost single-handedly, a role that exposed his limitations when not surrounded by a fully cohesive unit. His frustration was evident, as he picked up a technical foul in the third quarter after arguing a non-call, further derailing Greece’s momentum.
Lack of Leadership and Impact
Beyond the numbers, Giannis’ overall impact on the game was surprisingly muted. As the unquestioned leader of the Greek national team, he is expected to elevate his teammates and set the tone, especially in high-stakes preparation games like this one. However, his body language suggested frustration rather than inspiration. There were moments where he appeared disengaged, particularly in the second half, where Greece’s offense stagnated, and France capitalized with a 12-2 run to pull away.
Greece’s head coach, Vassilis Spanoulis, has built the team’s strategy around Giannis’ versatility, but in this game, the lack of a clear Plan B when Giannis struggled was telling. His teammates, perhaps overly reliant on his usual heroics, failed to step up, and Giannis did little to rally them. Compare this to his performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where he averaged 25.8 points and carried Greece to their first Olympic appearance in 16 years, and it’s clear that something was off against France.
Fatigue or Rust?
One possible explanation for Giannis’ subpar performance could be fatigue or rust. After a grueling 2024-25 NBA season, where he played 44 minutes in a playoff overtime loss to the Pacers and earned All-NBA First Team honors for the seventh consecutive year, it’s possible that Giannis is not yet in peak form. His limited participation in earlier friendlies—missing games against Belgium, Montenegro, and Italy due to an insurance dispute with the Bucks and a strategic rest plan—may have left him underprepared for France’s intensity. While his 15-minute outburst against Latvia showed flashes of brilliance, sustaining that level against a deeper, more experienced French team proved challenging.
Additionally, Greece’s roster management raises questions. With key players like Sloukas and Dinos Mitoglou rested for the France game, Giannis was forced to shoulder an even heavier load, which France exploited. This lack of team cohesion could be a warning sign for EuroBasket, where Greece will face tough Group C opponents like Spain, Italy, and Georgia.
Fan and Analyst Reactions
The sentiment among fans, particularly on social media, was one of disappointment. One user noted, “Giannis and his copains les arbitres couldn’t get it done. France’s defence ate him up, and he looked lost out there.” While some of this criticism may be exaggerated, it reflects a broader concern about Giannis’ ability to perform against elite international competition when the stakes are high. Greek media, which hailed him as “unstoppable” after the Latvia game, were more reserved in their analysis of the France matchup, with some outlets questioning whether Greece’s reliance on Giannis could backfire in the tournament.
Analysts have also pointed out that Giannis’ performance against France mirrors some of his struggles in the NBA playoffs, where teams with strong interior defenders and disciplined schemes have limited his effectiveness. If Greece hopes to contend for a medal—their first since 2009—they’ll need Giannis to find ways to overcome such defenses, whether through improved playmaking, better shot selection, or greater leadership.
What This Means for EuroBasket 2025
This friendly against France was Greece’s final tune-up before their EuroBasket campaign begins on August 28 against Italy in Limassol, Cyprus. While it’s just an exhibition game, the loss raises concerns about Greece’s ability to compete with the tournament’s heavyweights. Group C is no cakewalk, with Spain, led by Santi Aldama, and a talented Italian squad posing significant challenges. If Giannis continues to struggle against physical defenses or fails to elevate his teammates, Greece’s hopes of ending their 16-year medal drought could be in jeopardy.
Moreover, the absence of players like Giorgios Papagiannis and Nikos Rogkavopoulos, coupled with the aging core of Sloukas and Kostas Papanikolaou, puts even more pressure on Giannis to perform at an MVP level. His performance against France suggests that he’s not yet in top gear, and with the tournament just days away, time is running out to find his rhythm.
Another wake-Up Call for the Greek Freak
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s lackluster performance against France was a stark contrast to the media hype. Some of us have been saying it all year. His struggles with efficiency, turnovers, and leadership, combined with France’s effective defensive strategy, exposed vulnerabilities that Greece must address before EuroBasket 2025. While it’s unfair to judge Giannis solely on one friendly game, this outing serves as a wake-up call. For Greece to succeed, Giannis needs to rediscover his MVP form, adapt to defensive schemes, and inspire his teammates to rise to the occasion. Otherwise, the Greek Freak’s EuroBasket dreams—and those of a nation—may fall short once again. And more importantly the myth of Giannis as a solution to any team’s problems when it counts. He just can’t seem to ever deliver.
Last night, on August 20, 2025, Greece faced off against Latvia in a EuroBasket warm-up game at the Acropolis Tournament. What was supposed to be a triumphant return for Giannis Antetokounmpo turned into a frustrating display of individualism over team play. Greece may have won 104-86, but Giannis’ performance was anything but the heroic effort some headlines are painting it as. In fact, it was downright selfish and poorly executed in key areas, raising questions about his fit with the national team as they gear up for EuroBasket 2025.
The Context: High Expectations for the Greek Freak
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the two-time NBA MVP and Milwaukee Bucks superstar, hadn’t played a competitive game in nearly four months. This exhibition against Latvia—featuring NBA talent like Kristaps Porzingis—was meant to be his tune-up, a chance to shake off the rust and lead Greece to dominance. Instead, what we saw was a player who seemed more focused on padding his own stats than elevating his teammates. Greece’s national team has struggled in recent prep games without him, averaging just 66.7 points per game in their first four exhibitions. But with Giannis back, the offense exploded to 61 points in the first half alone—yet much of that felt forced through one man, highlighting a selfish approach that could spell trouble in tighter contests.
Stat Line Breakdown: Numbers That Mask the Issues
At first glance, Giannis’ box score looks impressive: 25 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks, shooting 9-of-12 from the field (75%) and 7-of-9 from the free-throw line (78%), all in just 15 minutes. But let’s dig deeper. These stats scream inefficiency in team context and a me-first mentality.
Here’s a quick table comparing Giannis’ output to what we’d expect from a true team leader in an international setting:
Category
Giannis’ Stats
Expected for Team Play
Critique
Points
25
15-20 (balanced scoring)
Hogged shots, taking 12 attempts in 15 minutes— that’s nearly one shot per minute, leaving little room for others.
Rebounds
10
8-12
Solid, but many were uncontested; Latvia’s poor interior defense gifted him easy boards rather than earned through hustle.
Assists
3
6+
Pathetic for a player of his caliber. Only 3 dimes? This shows he prioritized scoring over setting up teammates like Kostas Sloukas (who had 10 assists).
Shooting Efficiency
75% FG
High, but volume matters
Efficient, sure, but at what cost? Dominating the ball led to fewer touches for Greece’s shooters, who went 14-26 from three as a team but could have done more with better distribution.
Minutes Played
15
20-25
Benched early? Or pulled because his style wasn’t meshing? He exploded for 20 points in the first half but faded, suggesting stamina or focus issues.
Turnovers
Not reported (assumed low)
Minimal
Without full details, we can’t ignore potential sloppy plays; his aggressive style often leads to charges and travels in international rules.
Defensive Impact
2 STL, 2 BLK
Elite
Flashes of brilliance, but Latvia scored 86 points—too many for a “defensive anchor” like Giannis to allow, especially against a Porzingis-led squad that shot poorly (Porzingis: 7 points on 2-7 FG).
These numbers reveal a player who was effective in isolation but detrimental to fluid team basketball. Giannis’ 20 points in just 10 first-half minutes might sound like dominance, but it came via 8-9 two-pointers and free throws—basically bullying his way inside without much creativity or involvement of others. In the NBA, this works because of spacing and rules, but in FIBA play, where physicality is ramped up, it borders on selfishness.
Selfish Play: Ball-Hogging and Ignoring Teammates
The most glaring issue was Giannis’ selfishness. In 15 minutes, he attempted 12 field goals— that’s a usage rate that would make even prime James Harden blush. While Greece built a 61-45 halftime lead, it felt like a one-man show rather than a cohesive unit. Teammates like Giannoulis Larentzakis (14 points, including hot three-point shooting) had to wait for scraps, only heating up in the third quarter when Giannis sat. And those 3 assists? Barely enough to qualify as playmaking. Compare that to Sloukas’ 10 assists, and it’s clear who was actually facilitating.
Post-game reactions on social media were overwhelmingly positive, but that’s the hype machine at work. Fans gushed over the “Greek Freak unleashed,” but critics like us see the cracks: a player more interested in personal highlights than building chemistry. More importantly there was clearly an officiating issue with the Latvian players frustrated at dirty plays by the Greeks all game long.
Badly Executed Moments: Rust or Ego?
Giannis’ play was bad in subtle ways that stats don’t capture. His free-throw shooting at 78% (7-9) is decent but missed opportunities in a game where Latvia fouled aggressively. Defensively, while he had blocks and steals, Latvia’s 86 points indicate lapses—Porzingis may have struggled, but role players like Rihards Lomazs (17 points) found open looks too easily. And let’s talk rust: after four months off, Giannis looked gassed by the end of his stint, forcing shots instead of deferring.
Greece won by 18, but against a Latvia team missing full strength (Porzingis limited to 19 minutes and clearly frustrated at the dirty plays he received early on), this should have been a blowout. Instead, it was a grind until the fourth quarter, partly because Giannis’ iso-heavy style disrupted rhythm. You have to wonder if the Bucks are not regretting allowing him to play and risk injury, since he clearly does not understand how to behave safely on the court.
What This Means for Greece and EuroBasket 2025
This performance is a red flag. If Giannis continues this selfish approach, Greece risks imploding in EuroBasket, where team basketball reigns supreme. Coach Vassilis Spanoulis needs to rein him in, emphasise passing, and integrate him better. Remember, international success comes from unity, not one-man heroics.
Few duels in international basketball generate more anticipation than Nikola Jokic versus Giannis Antetokounmpo. Their recent European matchup, a FIBA World Cup qualifier between Serbia and Greece, lived up to the hype—offering a showcase of elite skill, intensity, and clutch drama. Yet, as the closing moments unfolded, it became clear that Jokic once again proved too much for Giannis, especially when the game was on the line. “Elite skill” and “clutch” can only be used next to one of the two. And bear in mind that Giannis has home court advantage as the games are played in Cyprus.
The Numbers: A Spectacular Showdown
The stat lines were gaudy for both superstars:
Jokic: 29 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists
Giannis: 40 points (a national team and European Qualifiers record), 8 rebounds, 5 assists
Despite Giannis’s scoring explosion, the final score told the story: Serbia 100, Greece 94 (OT)—with Jokic delivering the pivotal blows[1][2][3].
Breaking Down the Clutch
Overtime Execution
In crunch time, Jokic shifted into high gear. After Greece forced overtime with a clutch Tyler Dorsey three, Jokic responded by scoring six straight points in OT, putting Serbia up 97–92 and crushing Greece’s hopes[1][3]. Giannis and Dorsey attempted to respond but couldn’t find the range—both missing crucial attempts from beyond the arc in the dying minutes[1][3].
Why Jokic Was Untouchable
Jokic’s composure and decision-making in overtime made the difference. He created opportunities, finished tough baskets, and distributed under pressure. His field goal efficiency—nearly 70% from the floor and over 66% from three—highlighted his surgical precision in key moments[2][3]. He targeted the Antetokoumbros mercilessly, he played with them and then scored over all three of them easily.
Giannis’s Late-Game Woes
Despite his scoring through regulation, Giannis faltered in clutch situations. In overtime and the final possessions of regulation, he couldn’t manufacture quality shots and failed to hit deep daggers when it mattered most. Across the broader sample of clutch moments, Giannis has struggled. Recent data shows Giannis’s clutch field goal percentage lagging behind Jokic’s, especially from outside, and his plus-minus in crunch time is markedly lower[4].
The Pattern: Jokic Outshines Giannis When It Matters Most
Comparative Clutch Stats (NBA 2023–24)
Jokic
Giannis
Clutch Points
100
69
FG% (Clutch)
50.9%
37.5%
3PT% (Clutch)
36.4%
16.7%
Plus-Minus
+79
+17
Clutch = last 5 minutes, margin ≤ 5 [4]
Jokic not only produces more, but does so with better shot selection and control under heat, allowing his teams to close out tight matches.
The Narrative: Leadership Under Pressure
Jokic’s poise as Serbia’s floor general inspired his teammates to execute and finish strong. Giannis, for all his athletic brilliance, still faces challenges creating his own shot in tightly contested, half-court situations—especially under FIBA’s slower, more physical style of play, where spacing is limited and referees let contact go[5].
The kids just ain’t got “it”
While Giannis tried to dazzle with raw numbers and high-flying theatrics, it was Jokic’s surgical focus and execution in the decisive moments that secured Serbia’s win. Until Giannis finds an answer for these clutch situations on the international stage, the narrative remains clear: In the clutch, Jokic stands a class above[1][2][3]. Giannis is just a stat padder.
The Milwaukee Bucks entered the 2025 NBA Playoffs as the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference, riding an eight-game winning streak and bolstered by the return of key players like Damian Lillard and Bobby Portis. Facing the No. 4 seed Indiana Pacers, who held home-court advantage for the first time since 2014, the Bucks were expected to leverage their star power and playoff experience to advance. However, the Pacers dispatched Milwaukee in a decisive 4-1 series, culminating in a thrilling 119-118 overtime victory in Game 5, driven by Tyrese Haliburton’s clutch heroics. Giannis’ fat statements about “NOW I know what I need to do” before the games proved to be just that: empty talk.
1. Defensive Struggles Against Indiana’s High-Octane Offense
The Pacers’ fast-paced, ball-movement-heavy offense overwhelmed Milwaukee’s defense throughout the series. Indiana, known for their relentless pace, averaged 17.5 fast-break points per game during the regular season, which jumped to 24.3 against the Bucks in their four regular-season matchups. This trend continued in the playoffs, where the Pacers exploited transition opportunities and defensive lapses to devastating effect.
Milwaukee’s defense, ranked in the bottom half of the league in points allowed per 100 possessions during the regular season, was ill-equipped to handle Indiana’s speed. In Game 2, for instance, the Bucks allowed 123 points, with critical breakdowns like Tyrese Haliburton blowing past Kyle Kuzma in transition and Pascal Siakam capitalizing on a 3-on-2 break. These plays highlighted Milwaukee’s inability to get back quickly enough to set their defense, a problem exacerbated by veterans like Brook Lopez and Damian Lillard, who appeared a step slow.
The Bucks’ defensive rating in the first two games was a dismal 121.8, reflecting their struggles to contain Indiana’s multi-faceted attack. The Pacers’ ability to create “power-play opportunities” (13.4% of their offensive possessions, second only to Denver) allowed players like Andrew Nembhard and Aaron Nesmith to exploit mismatches in transition. Milwaukee’s switch-heavy defensive strategy showed promise in Game 2’s fourth quarter, holding Indiana to 24 points, but inconsistent execution led to breakdowns, such as Siakam’s game-sealing 3-pointer in Game 2.
Giannis is clearly not the DPOY he once was. He is focusing on offence and is much slower and less energetic in defence. He roams looking for the highlight block thus confusing his team’s defensive plan. And of course they all have to clear out so he can rack up defensive rebounds for his stats – that’s an order. Contrast that to the selfless team play of Indiana and you see the problem. That stuff may work in regular season easier games but not in NBA playoffs. Giannis should know better and curtail his ego.
2. Inability to Contain Tyrese Haliburton’s Clutch Play
Tyrese Haliburton emerged as the series’ defining figure, particularly in Game 5, where his game-winning layup in overtime sealed the Bucks’ fate. Haliburton’s ability to deliver in high-pressure moments was a recurring nightmare for Milwaukee. In Game 3, he recorded 17 points, 8 rebounds, and 15 assists, leading Indiana to a 129-103 rout. His Game 5 performance, including a layup-and-one to cut a four-point deficit and a subsequent game-winner, underscored his knack for taking over games.
Milwaukee’s defensive schemes struggled to contain Haliburton, especially in pick-and-roll situations. The Pacers doubled ball screens involving Lillard, forcing him to make decisions under pressure, and Haliburton’s speed and playmaking exposed slower defenders like Lopez. In Game 2, Haliburton sprinted past Kuzma and drew Giannis away from his assignment, leading to open shots for teammates like Nesmith. The Bucks faced a tactical dilemma: leave Haliburton to score in the paint or risk open 3-pointers elsewhere, a question they failed to answer consistently. Giannis is just too slow to even understand what is going on, let alone adjust. Lateral speed has always been Giannis weak spot and it’s getting worse. In fact Giannis is worse this season at most statistical categories.
3. Offensive Inefficiencies and Poor 3-Point Shooting
Because of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s dominance the Bucks’ offence lacked rhythm and consistency. Milwaukee, the league’s best 3-point shooting team during the regular season at 38.7%, shot a dismal 24.3% (9 of 37) in Game 1. Coach Doc Rivers noted that many of these attempts came off late passes, disrupting the team’s offensive flow. Giannis always looks to get his easy bucket for his stats first. It’s predictable and all too often it leads to a (usually mediocre or even bad) pass with not much time left on the clock. Then everyone blames the receiver and not Giannis! The Bucks were the No1 team in the regular season for 3pt percentage.
The return of Damian Lillard, who missed Game 1 due to a blood clot but played 37 minutes in Game 2, didn’t provide the expected spark. Lillard, still recovering, shot 4-of-13 for 14 points in Game 2 and struggled defensively, likely due to his month-long absence and a calf injury. The Bucks’ reliance on Giannis to carry the offence was evident, but his lack of play making in Game 1 (one assist) highlighted the team’s struggle to generate open looks for shooters like Gary Trent Jr. and AJ Green. Giannis simply lacks the range of potential movements and the basketball IQ to understand how to change the team plays. Never in any universe should he be bringing down the ball.
4. Failure to Capitalize on Home Games
After falling into a 2-0 hole in Indianapolis, the Bucks had a chance to shift momentum at home in Games 3 and 4. They managed a 117-101 victory in Game 3, powered by Giannis (34 points) and Gary Trent Jr.’s hot shooting from deep. Here I had predicted the Pacers would let them win it way before the game and I was correct. The Pacers simply wanted to finish off the series in Indiana and make some extra money along the way. They responded with a commanding 129-103 win in Game 4, exposing Milwaukee’s inability to sustain defensive intensity. Indiana’s road performance was formidable, with an 18-9 record and the fourth-best road net rating after a slow start to the season. This resilience made it difficult for the Bucks to capitalise on home-court energy.
The Bucks’ Game 4 loss was particularly damaging, as Indiana’s balanced attack—led by six players in double figures—overpowered Milwaukee’s defense. The Pacers’ ability to maintain their high-octane offense away from home, averaging 117.8 points per 100 possessions on the road, meant the Bucks couldn’t rely on home advantage to slow Indiana down.
5. Historical Context and Rivalry Dynamics
The Pacers have historically had Milwaukee’s number in playoff match ups, never losing a series to the Bucks. In 2024, Indiana defeated a Giannis-less Bucks team 4-2, and this year’s 4-1 result continued that trend. The rivalry’s intensity, marked by incidents like the 2023 game-ball dispute and Haliburton’s “Dame Time” mimicry, added a psychological edge for Indiana. Haliburton himself acknowledged the animosity, stating, “We don’t like them, they don’t like us,” which seemed to fuel the Pacers’ focus.
The Bucks’ inability to channel this rivalry into consistent performance, especially after blowing a seven-point lead in the final minute of Game 5’s overtime, underscored their mental and tactical lapses, with Giannis bearing most of the blame but insisting on trying to guard Tyrese. He clearly couldn’t and it cost the game. Getting blown past once happens. Twice you are starting to look stupid. Three times in clutch and Giannis should have come out after the game and asked his team for forgiveness.
This was mainly Giannis’ fault
While Giannis delivered scoring outbursts—36 points in Game 1, 34 in Game 2, and 34 in Game 3—his shortcomings in play making, defensive discipline, and clutch situations were pivotal in the Bucks’ inability to compete effectively.
1. Limited Playmaking and Over-Reliance on Scoring
Giannis’s dominance as a scorer was evident, averaging 34.0 points per game on 56.2% field goal shooting, but his play making fell short of what the Bucks needed against Indiana’s high-octane offence. In Game 1, Giannis recorded just one assist, a stark contrast to Haliburton’s 15 assists in Game 3. His tendency to drive into crowded lanes and force shots, rather than facilitating for open teammates, disrupted Milwaukee’s offensive flow. The Bucks shot a dismal 24.3% from three in Game 1 (9 of 37), with many attempts coming off late passes or broken plays, a problem exacerbated by Giannis’s limited vision as a passer.
So this is interesting. Before these playoffs, the Pacers had many more assists per game than the Bucks. Yeah, we all know they pass a lot. So why then did they have LESS assists in every game of the playoff series against the Bucks?
This has Giannis written all over it. He simply can’t adjust and reverts to his selfish ways, running to dunk and then passing when he gets stuck. It is amazing his team mates get any in at all as they are usually stone cold and haven’t touched the ball for ages! The Pacers were all probing the paint quickly but then passing out immediately if they saw issues with the total team effort. There is no “i” in team but plenty of “I” in Giannis!
Indiana’s defensive strategy focused on clogging the paint, daring Giannis to kick out to shooters like Gary Trent Jr. or AJ Green. However, Giannis averaged only 3.8 assists per game in the series, compared to his regular-season average of 6.5. In Game 4, a 129-103 blowout loss, Giannis’s four turnovers, including two errant passes in the third quarter, led to fast-break points for the Pacers. His inability to consistently create for others allowed Indiana to collapse on him, stifling Milwaukee’s offence and leaving shooters like Damian Lillard, who was still recovering from injury, unable to find rhythm.
2. Defensive Lapses in Transition and Pick-and-Roll Coverage
The Pacers’ fast-paced attack, averaging 24.3 fast-break points per game in the series, exposed Giannis’s struggles in transition defence. His positioning and decision-making faltered against Indiana’s speed. In Game 2, Tyrese Haliburton blew past Kyle Kuzma in transition, drawing Giannis away from his assignment and leaving Aaron Nesmith open for a corner three. Similar breakdowns occurred in Game 5, where Giannis’s hesitation to pick up Haliburton in a 3-on-2 break led to a backbreaking layup. It seems like Giannis is more concerned with the optics and himself looking good than actually helping his team win.
In pick-and-roll situations, Giannis struggled to balance defending the ball-handler and protecting the rim. The Pacers’ use of double ball screens targeting Damian Lillard forced Giannis to hedge or switch, but he was often a step slow, allowing Haliburton to penetrate or find open teammates. Milwaukee’s defensive rating in the series was a poor 121.8 in the first two games, with Giannis’s inability to anchor the defence against Indiana’s “power-play opportunities” (13.4% of possessions) proving costly.
3. Clutch-Time Struggles and Poor Decision-Making
The Bucks’ collapse in Game 5’s overtime, blowing a seven-point lead in the final minute, highlighted Giannis’s struggles in clutch moments. With the game on the line, Giannis failed to take control, deferring to teammates or making questionable decisions. In the final possession of overtime, he drove into a crowded paint, ignoring an open Gary Trent Jr. on the wing, resulting in a blocked shot by Myles Turner. Haliburton capitalized on the other end with a game-winning layup-and-one, underscoring Giannis’s inability to deliver when it mattered most.
Giannis’s clutch-time stats were lacklustre: in the series’ five games, he shot 2-for-5 in clutch situations (last five minutes, score within five points) and committed two turnovers. His free-throw shooting, a long-standing weakness, also hurt the Bucks, as he went 10-for-16 (62.5%) in Game 5, missing key attempts that could have sealed the game in regulation. These misses shifted momentum to Indiana, who thrived on Milwaukee’s mistakes. This is nothing new. But Bucks’ fans have never admitted that in the championship run Khris bailed him out every time. Giannis simply can’t operate in clutch situations.
4. Failure to Lead and Elevate Teammates
As the Bucks’ leader, Giannis was expected to rally a roster dealing with injuries (Lillard’s calf issue and limited minutes in Game 2) and fatigue from heavy reliance on a seven-man rotation. However, his leadership on the court lacked the intangibles needed to counter Indiana’s intensity. The Pacers’ psychological edge, fueled by the ongoing rivalry and Haliburton’s taunting (mimicking “Dame Time” in Game 3), seemed to unsettle the Bucks. Giannis, despite acknowledging the rivalry’s intensity post-game, failed to channel it into cohesive team play. This has been his fault for many years now. From the game ball debacle in the regular season, Giannis has indeed acted like a child (to quote J.Brown!) and made the Pacers aware how easy it is to get him rattled.
In Game 3, the Bucks’ lone win (117-101), Giannis’s 34 points were complemented by Gary Trent Jr.’s hot shooting, but this was an outlier, as the Pacers probably didn’t really fight to win that game anyway. In losses, Giannis’s dominance didn’t translate to elevating players like Bobby Portis or Kevin Porter Jr., who struggled to find open looks. His tunnel vision in key moments, such as forcing drives against double-teams in Game 4, limited opportunities for role players to contribute, unlike Haliburton, who consistently set up teammates like Pascal Siakam and Andrew Nembhard. The higher the stakes, the worse Giannis plays. He tends to revert to his same, extremely predictable, go to moves and it simply doesn’t work.
5. Inability to Counter Indiana’s Strategic Adjustments
The Pacers made effective adjustments throughout the series, particularly in neutralising Giannis’s paint dominance. In Game 2, Indiana doubled Giannis on post touches, forcing him to pass out of tight spaces, which led to three turnovers in the third quarter alone. Coach Rick Carlisle’s strategy of using Myles Turner’s rim protection and Pascal Siakam’s versatility limited Giannis’s efficiency in the half-court, forcing him to rely on contested mid-range shots, where he went 3-for-10 in the series.
Giannis failed to adapt to these adjustments, and again it’s on Giannis who was sticking to his drive-heavy approach rather than exploiting Indiana’s smaller defenders, like Nembhard, with post-ups or quick passes. His lack of a reliable outside shot—0-for-3 from three in the series—allowed the Pacers to sag off him, clogging driving lanes and disrupting Milwaukee’s spacing. This predictability made it easier for Indiana to dictate the game’s tempo, especially in their 129-103 Game 4 rout.
The Milwaukee Bucks’ loss to the Indiana Pacers in the 2025 NBA Playoffs was a result of multiple compounding factors. Defensively, they couldn’t contain Indiana’s fast-break attack or Tyrese Haliburton’s clutch play making. For Milwaukee, this early exit raises questions about their defensive identity, roster construction, and ability to compete in a faster, more dynamic Eastern Conference. As the Bucks head into the off season, addressing these weaknesses will be critical to reclaiming their status as championship contenders. But take a minute before boasting how “every team wants to trade for Giannis” to think about it. Is he really any good at all at NBA playoff basketball or is he a liability?
The Milwaukee Bucks’ 2025 NBA Playoff run came to a heartbreaking end on April 29, 2025, with a 119-118 overtime loss to the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 of their first-round series. Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks’ two-time MVP and perennial All-NBA star, delivered a monster performance on paper, posting a 30-point, 20-rebound triple-double. Yet, despite his gaudy stat line, a closer examination of his play in the critical overtime period reveals that he was a liability on both ends of the floor.
The Context: A Game of Momentum Swings
Game 5 was a rollercoaster, with the Bucks jumping out to a 13-0 lead, only for the Pacers to storm back from a 20-point deficit. The game was tied at 103 after regulation, thanks in part to Giannis missing a 16-foot turnaround jumper at the buzzer—a shot that, while within his skill set, was a low-percentage look under pressure. In overtime, the Bucks held a 118-111 lead with just 40 seconds remaining, but Indiana mounted an 8-0 run to steal the game, capped by Tyrese Haliburton’s game-winning layup with one second left. Giannis, who played all five minutes of overtime, was at the center of Milwaukee’s collapse.
Defensive Liability: Failing to Contain Haliburton
Defensively, Giannis is sometimes a force. Well, he used to be. His length, athleticism, and instincts make him a former Defensive Player of the Year and a constant disruptor. However, in overtime, he looked gassed and was repeatedly exposed, particularly by Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton. Posts on social media captured the sentiment of fans and analysts who watched the game closely, with one user noting, “Giannis didn’t adjust his defense, kept getting baited into committing, and then he has no help defense once he gets blown by”. This critique is spot-on.
The game’s defining moment came on Haliburton’s game-winning layup. With 17 seconds left, Andrew Nembhard hit a 33-foot three-pointer to cut the Bucks’ lead to one. On the ensuing possession, Gary Trent Jr. fumbled a pass out of bounds, giving Indiana the ball back. Haliburton, guarded by Giannis, shook him with a hesitation move, drove left past him “like he was standing still” , and laid the ball in over Brook Lopez for the 119-118 lead. Giannis’ inability to stay in front of Haliburton was inexcusable for a player of his caliber. His fatigue was evident—he played 44 minutes total, including the entire fourth quarter and overtime —and it showed in his sluggish lateral movement. Gianni’s is never fast in these situations but here it was just plain epic stupidity to get outplayed in the same way multiple times and not change anything. Doing the same thing and expecting a different outcome is a sure sign of extremely low intelligence.
Earlier in overtime, the Bucks also suffered from defensive breakdowns, with Doc Rivers pointing to Nembhard’s deep three as a “key play”. While Giannis wasn’t directly guarding Nembhard, his role as a help defender was critical, and he failed to rotate effectively. The Pacers’ ability to exploit Milwaukee’s defense in overtime was a team-wide issue, but Giannis, as the anchor, bore significant responsibility. His energy levels appeared depleted, and his defensive awareness waned at the worst possible time.
Could another player have fared better? The Bucks’ starting lineup included Gary Trent Jr., Kevin Porter Jr., AJ Green, and Bobby Portis, with Brook Lopez as a rim-protecting option off the bench. Trent, who led the team with two steals per game, or even a fresher wing like AJ Green could have taken on Haliburton. Green, who played 46 minutes, was part of the lineup that forced a shot-clock violation early in the game, suggesting he had the defensive chops to at least contest Haliburton’s drives. While no one on the roster matches Giannis’ defensive upside, his exhaustion made him a net negative in this scenario.
Offensive Struggles: Limited Impact in Crunch Time
Offensively, Giannis was similarly ineffective in overtime. He scored just two points on two shot attempts, grabbed four rebounds, and dished out two assists. While these numbers aren’t terrible in a vacuum, they pale in comparison to his overall game impact and highlight his limitations in high-stakes, half-court situations. Fans on X were harsh, with one stating, “Giannis has always been helpless in crunch time when he can’t run and dunk”. This criticism, while hyperbolic, points to a recurring issue: Giannis’ game is less effective when the pace slows and defenses tighten.
In regulation, Giannis had a chance to win the game but “threw up a laughable brick” on a fadeaway jumper. This miss set the tone for his overtime performance, where he failed to assert himself as a scorer. The Bucks’ offense relied heavily on Gary Trent Jr., who nailed four three-pointers in overtime, including multiple contested looks. Trent’s hot shooting nearly saved Milwaukee, but the team’s two turnovers in the final 30 seconds—culminating in Trent’s fumble—sealed their fate. Giannis, as the primary ball-handler in “Point Giannis” mode, didn’t create enough to compensate for these miscues.
Giannis’ offensive limitations are well-documented. His midrange game, while improved, remains inconsistent, and his three-point shooting is nonexistent (0-for-1 in Game 4, per). In overtime, the Pacers packed the paint, daring him to shoot or pass out to shooters. With Damian Lillard sidelined for the series, Giannis lacked a reliable pick-and-roll partner to break down Indiana’s defense. His 13 assists for the game show his playmaking ability, but in overtime, he couldn’t generate high-quality looks when it mattered most.
Contrast this with Haliburton, who scored Indiana’s last five points in overtime, including the game-winner, and their last eight in regulation. The Pacers’ offense flowed through their star, who was “unafraid” and made plays in clutch moments. Milwaukee needed Giannis to match that intensity, but he couldn’t. A player like Kevin Porter Jr., who played 47 minutes and had shown scoring flashes in the series, might have offered a spark as a secondary creator, even if his decision-making is less polished.
The Root Cause was not fatigue
He logged 44 minutes, second only to Trent’s 48 among Bucks starters. Posts on social media noted that “Giannis looked gassed all five minutes” in overtime, while the Pacers “had the energy to play ten more”. But those are pathetic excuses. Even 40 year old LeBron James played a whole half with no break and was a monster on both ends. Gianni’s is only 30 and boasts about his physical conditioning, you can’t just pretend he lost it all of a sudden. No, these issues have plagued Giannis in every important match up and I pointed them all out months ago.
The emphasis on his numbers in total ignores the reality of playoff NBA basketball. Giannis’ stat-stuffing didn’t translate to winning plays in overtime. All season they haven’t, the Bucks have not beat any of the top seeded teams in the East. Giannis gets amazing stats, the team fails. We have seen this before and it’s on Giannis, not the rest of the roster. His defensive lapses and offensive passivity were glaring, and the Bucks’ collapse—blowing a seven-point lead in 40 seconds—demanded a tactical adjustment. It is unfair to talk about Rivers’ refusal to adapt, since we all know Giannis demands to be on court in these games. Giannis handed the Pacers the momentum they needed to close out the series.
Game 5’s overtime exposed his vulnerabilities. Defensively, he couldn’t contain Haliburton or anchor the team’s scheme. Offensively, he was limited to two points and failed to create when the Bucks needed it most. It is also completely unfair to blame the Bucks’ lack of depth. That is Giannis fault for not giving them more chances in the regular season. He is too busy stat padding even in garbage time of blowout wins. As Giannis himself said postgame, he needs to “look in the mirror” and improve. After 3 years of early playoff exits we are not seen any improvement. Obviously Giannis doesn’t have any good mirrors around him, just people that suck up to him.
The Bucks are often better without Giannis on the floor, particularly in high-stakes situations like the fourth quarter of close games. This phenomenon is most noticeable in their defensive agility and offensive fluidity, which seem to peak when Giannis is on the bench. When he returns, the team’s rhythm often falters.
Defensive Agility: Faster and More Cohesive Without Giannis
Giannis is a defensive juggernaut, capable of guarding multiple positions and anchoring the Bucks’ paint defence with his rim protection. His 7’0” frame and freakish athleticism have made him a one-man defensive system at times in the past. However, the Bucks’ defence often appears more cohesive and versatile when he’s off the floor, especially in the fourth quarter of tight games.
Speed and Perimeter Coverage
Without Giannis, the Bucks can deploy lineups that are quicker and more adept at covering the perimeter. Players like Jrue Holiday (before his departure), Damian Lillard, Khris Middleton, and role players such as Pat Connaughton or Bobby Portis bring a level of lateral quickness that Giannis, despite his athleticism, doesn’t always match. Giannis excels in help defence and rim protection, but his size can sometimes be a liability against smaller, quicker guards or wings who exploit pick-and-rolls or isolations.
In crunch time, opponents often spread the floor to create space for their best scorers. The Bucks’ non-Giannis lineups are better equipped to switch defensively, hedge screens, and recover on shooters. Data from recent seasons supports this: in the 2022-23 season, the Bucks’ defensive rating in the fourth quarter was often better (by approximately 3-5 points per 100 possessions) in lineups without Giannis compared to those with him, especially against teams with elite perimeter scorers.
Closing Defensive Gaps
Giannis’s presence sometimes allows opponents to game-plan around his tendencies. Teams will pull him away from the paint with stretch bigs or force him into pick-and-roll situations where he’s less comfortable. Without him, the Bucks can play a more disciplined, team-oriented defense, with players like Brook Lopez anchoring the paint and perimeter defenders staying glued to their assignments. The result is a defense that feels less reliant on one player’s superhuman efforts and more like a well-oiled machine.
Offensive Fluidity: Ball Movement Over Hero Ball
On offense, the Bucks’ identity shifts dramatically when Giannis is on the bench. While Giannis is a force of nature driving to the rim and collapsing defenses, his presence can sometimes stagnate the Bucks’ offense, particularly in clutch moments. The team’s tendency to lean on “Giannis ball”—where he dominates the ball and either scores or kicks out—can lead to predictable sets that savvy defenses counter.
Sharing the Ball
Without Giannis, the Bucks move the ball with purpose, relying on a motion offense that maximizes the skills of their supporting cast. Players like Lillard, Middleton, and even role players like Malik Beasley or Grayson Allen thrive in these scenarios, as they get more opportunities to create and score. The ball zips around the perimeter, with multiple players touching it on a single possession, leading to open threes or cutting opportunities.
NBA tracking data highlights this trend. In the 2023-24 season, the Bucks averaged more passes per possession and a higher assist-to-turnover ratio in fourth-quarter lineups without Giannis. For example, in games where Giannis sat the opening minutes of the fourth, the Bucks’ offensive rating often spiked by 5-7 points per 100 possessions compared to when he was on the floor. This suggests that the team’s egalitarian approach without Giannis creates better shot opportunities.
Spacing and Pace
Giannis’s limited outside shooting (career 28.5% from three) allows defences to sag off him, clogging the paint and limiting driving lanes for teammates. In contrast, lineups without Giannis often feature better floor spacing, with players like Lillard and Middleton in the past stretching defences thin. This opens up the floor for pick-and-rolls, backdoor cuts, and transition opportunities, which the Bucks exploit with devastating efficiency.
The pace also tends to increase without Giannis. While he’s a transition monster, his half-court dominance can slow the game down as the Bucks look to feed him in the post or let him initiate drives. Non-Giannis lineups push the ball faster, catching defenses off guard and creating easy buckets before opponents can set up.
The Giannis Effect: Why Things Get Worse When He Returns
The Bucks’ decision to start the fourth quarter without Giannis in many close games is strategic. It allows them to build or maintain a lead with their faster, more fluid lineups before bringing Giannis back to close things out. However, his re-entry often disrupts the rhythm they’ve established.
Defensive Adjustments
When Giannis returns, opponents adjust their game plan to exploit his weaknesses. They target him in pick-and-rolls, pull him out to the perimeter, or force him to chase shooters, which can lead to breakdowns in the Bucks’ defensive structure. The team’s earlier cohesion gives way to a more individualistic approach, as players defer to Giannis’s ability to make plays.
Offensive Stagnation
Offensively, the ball movement that defined the non-Giannis minutes grinds to a halt. Teammates stand and watch as Giannis takes on defenders one-on-one, leading to contested shots or turnovers. Defences collapse on him, knowing he’s unlikely to shoot from deep, which clogs passing lanes and reduces open looks for shooters. The Bucks’ assist numbers often drop significantly in these moments, and their offence becomes easier to predict.
The Psychological Factor
There’s also a psychological element at play. Giannis is the Bucks’ alpha, and his return can shift the team’s mindset from “we’re all in this together” to “let Giannis take over.” This deference can sap the confidence of role players who were thriving without him, leading to hesitation and missed opportunities.
Case Studies: Games That Prove the Point
Let’s look at a couple of examples from the 2023-24 season to illustrate this trend:
Bucks vs. Celtics (April 2024): In a tight game against Boston, the Bucks started the fourth quarter without Giannis, relying on a lineup of Lillard, Middleton, Lopez, Beasley, and Portis. They outscored the Celtics by 10 points in the first five minutes, with crisp ball movement leading to open threes and Lopez dominating the paint defensively. When Giannis returned, Boston adjusted by doubling him and forcing turnovers, and the Bucks’ lead dwindled as their offense stalled.
Bucks vs. Heat (Playoffs 2023): During the first round of the 2023 playoffs, the Bucks’ non-Giannis lineups consistently outperformed their Giannis-led counterparts in the fourth quarter. In Game 4, the Bucks built a lead with Giannis on the bench, only for Miami to claw back when he returned, as their defense keyed in on stopping him at the expense of leaving shooters open.
What Does This Mean for the Bucks?
The idea that the Bucks are better without Giannis might sound blasphemous, but it’s more about fit than talent. Giannis is undeniably the team’s best player, but his style can sometimes clash with the needs of a modern NBA offense and defense in crunch time. The Bucks’ coaching staff, led by Doc Rivers in 2024-25, seems to recognize this, as evidenced by their consistent choice to stagger Giannis’s minutes in the fourth quarter.
Potential Solutions
To maximize their potential, the Bucks could consider the following adjustments:
Diversify Giannis’s Role: Encourage Giannis to act as a screener, cutter, or decoy in crunch-time offense to keep defenses guessing and maintain ball movement.
Improve His Perimeter Defense: Work on Giannis’s ability to guard quicker players on the perimeter to reduce defensive liabilities.
Balance Lineups: Pair Giannis with shooters and playmakers who can thrive alongside him, ensuring the offence doesn’t stagnate when he’s on the floor.
So no, Giannis is not a champion winner
The Milwaukee Bucks are a championship-calibre team with Giannis Antetokounmpo as their cornerstone. However, their performance in the fourth quarter of close games often highlights a counter intuitive truth: they can be better without him on the floor. Their defence becomes faster and more versatile, and their offence flows with better ball movement and spacing. When Giannis returns, the team’s rhythm often suffers as opponents exploit his limitations and the Bucks revert to a less dynamic style.
The Milwaukee Bucks entered Game 2 of their 2025 NBA Playoffs first-round series against the Indiana Pacers with a chance to even the score after a disappointing 117-98 loss in Game 1. With Damian Lillard returning from injury and Giannis Antetokounmpo expected to lead the charge, hopes were high for a Bucks rebound. Instead, Game 2 unfolded as a showcase of Giannis’ worst tendencies—selfish decision-making, predictable offensive moves, and a failure to adapt—culminating in a 123-115 defeat that put Milwaukee in a 2-0 hole. To make matters worse, Giannis’ postgame press conference remarks doubled down on his now-infamous “there is no failure in sports” speech from 2023, coming across as tone-deaf and out of touch with the gravity of the Bucks’ predicament.
A Stat Line That Masks Selfishness
On paper, Giannis’ performance in Game 2 looks impressive: 34 points, 18 rebounds, 7 assists, and a block in 40 minutes. He shot an efficient 14-of-20 from the field and 6-of-10 from the free-throw line. But numbers only tell part of the story. Watching the game revealed a player who, despite his gaudy stats, played with a tunnel-vision approach that disrupted the Bucks’ offensive flow and played right into the Pacers’ defensive hands.
Giannis dominated the ball far too often, opting for isolation drives against multiple defenders rather than leveraging his teammates. Early in the game, he repeatedly barreled into the paint, ignoring open shooters like Kyle Kuzma and Brook Lopez on the perimeter. The Pacers, coached by Rick Carlisle, were ready for this. They collapsed the paint with help defenders like Myles Turner and Pascal Siakam, forcing Giannis into contested shots or turnovers. Turner, a two-time blocks champion, emphasized the Pacers’ strategy: “Sometimes you’ve got to lose the battle to win the war,” indicating they were content letting Giannis take tough shots as long as they limited Milwaukee’s role players.
This approach worked. While Giannis racked up points, only three other Bucks scored in double digits, with the team’s four other starters combining for a meager 14 points in Game 1—a trend that continued in Game 2. The Bucks’ offense became one-dimensional, relying on Giannis to bulldoze through double- and triple-teams. His seven assists suggest playmaking, but many came late in the game during a desperate fourth-quarter rally, when the Bucks cut a 15-point deficit to two before ultimately falling short. Had Giannis trusted his teammates earlier, the Bucks might have avoided such a deep hole.
Predictable Moves and Defensive Exploitation
Giannis’ offensive game has long been criticized for its lack of variety, and Game 2 exposed this flaw glaringly. His go-to move—lowering his shoulder and charging into the paint—was telegraphed from the opening tip. The Pacers’ defenders, particularly Siakam and Aaron Nesmith, anticipated these drives, positioning themselves to draw charges or force Giannis into awkward angles. NBA tracking data from the regular season showed Siakam defending Giannis for 130 possessions, allowing 47 points on 67% shooting, but in Game 2, the Pacers adjusted, using help defence to clog driving lanes.
Carlisle noted post-Game 1 that Giannis “got to the basket too much,” and the Pacers tightened their scheme in Game 2, fouling strategically and daring Giannis to shoot from outside. He attempted zero three-pointers, a stark contrast to the modern NBA’s emphasis on spacing. His reluctance to shoot from deep allowed defenders to sag off, crowding the paint and limiting Milwaukee’s drive-and-kick opportunities. Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers’ All-Star guard, capitalized on this, confidently stating that the Bucks’ poor three-point shooting (9-of-37 in Game 1) was unlikely to persist but that Indiana’s pressure would keep Milwaukee uncomfortable.
Giannis’ predictability extended to his defensive effort, or lack thereof. Tasked with guarding Siakam at times, he struggled to keep up with the Pacers’ motion offense. Siakam exploited Giannis’ slower lateral movement, scoring 25 points and creating open looks for teammates. Giannis’ single block was overshadowed by moments of disengagement, particularly in transition, where Indiana’s fast-paced attack overwhelmed Milwaukee’s defence. The Pacers’ ability to push the tempo—something Giannis himself acknowledged as a Bucks weakness—further highlighted his inability to adjust to playoff intensity.
The Blame Falls on Giannis
While the Bucks’ supporting cast underperformed and Lillard shot a dismal 4-of-13 in his return, Giannis bears the brunt of the blame for Game 2’s loss. As a two-time MVP and the team’s undisputed leader, he sets the tone. His insistence on hero-ball tactics stifled the offense and demoralized teammates who were left spectating rather than contributing. The Bucks’ late rally showed what could have been—a balanced attack with ball movement and open shots—but it came too late, largely because Giannis failed to adapt until the game was nearly out of reach. More importantly his passes are still abysmal. Hardly ever in the shooter’s comfortable pocket to receive the pass, usually at the end of the clock, predictable so the Pacers are all over the receiver. No wonder they can’t get them in more!
The contrast with the Pacers’ team-oriented play was stark. Indiana’s seven double-digit scorers and Haliburton’s 12 assists in Game 1 demonstrated a collective effort that Milwaukee lacked. Giannis’ couldn’t overcome a Pacers squad that executed Carlisle’s game plan with precision. The Bucks’ 48-34 regular-season record and fifth seed already hinted at vulnerabilities, and Giannis’ inability to elevate his team in the playoffs—especially after missing last year’s series against Indiana due to injury—raises questions about his leadership in high-stakes moments. It seems the more he gets determined the more foolishly he plays.
A Foolish Follow-Up to “No Failure in Sports”
Giannis’ postgame press conference only compounded the frustration. In 2023, after the Bucks’ stunning first-round exit to the Miami Heat, Giannis delivered a viral speech rejecting the notion of failure in sports. He argued that every season is a step toward success, using Michael Jordan’s six championships in 15 years to illustrate that not winning doesn’t equate to failure. The speech was praised for its perspective but in fact it was incredibly dumb and disrespectful for many reasons outlined here.
But in the context of Game 2’s loss, Giannis’ attempt to revisit this philosophy fell flat. When asked about the Bucks’ 0-2 deficit, he reiterated that “there’s no failure in sports” and emphasised effort over results, saying, “We’re giving everything we have, and that’s what matters.” This response, while consistent with his 2023 stance, felt disconnected from the moment. The Bucks aren’t just losing—they’re being outplayed with Giannis’ flaws at the forefront. Fans and analysts, already frustrated by Milwaukee’s first-round exits in the past two seasons, saw the comments as deflecting accountability.
The 2023 speech worked because it came from a place of reflection after a season-ending loss. In 2025, with the series still ongoing and the Bucks facing elimination, Giannis’ remarks seemed dismissive of the urgency. His analogy to Jordan ignores a key difference: Jordan adapted, developing a jump shot and mastering playoff chess matches. Giannis, by contrast, appears stuck in his ways, relying on athleticism over versatility. Repeating the “no failure” mantra risks alienating fans who see a team failing to meet expectations, especially with a roster built around a perennial MVP candidate.
Can Giannis Redeem Himself?
The Bucks now head to Milwaukee for Game 3, trailing 2-0 in a series that feels increasingly lopsided. Giannis has the talent to turn things around, but it will require a dramatic shift. He must trust his teammates, diversify his offensive approach, and match the Pacers’ defensive intensity. Does the 2021 NBA Finals MVP know what it takes to win a championship or was it an extremely lucky run back then? Recent playoff performances suggest he’s struggling to translate that experience into consistent postseason success.
The Pacers, meanwhile, are brimming with confidence. Carlisle’s defensive adjustments and Haliburton’s playmaking have exposed Milwaukee’s weaknesses, and Indiana’s depth makes them a formidable opponent. If Giannis continues to play predictably and selfishly, the Bucks risk a third straight first-round exit—a far cry from the “steps to success” he preaches.
In the end, Game 2 was a microcosm of Giannis’ current limitations. His physical gifts are unmatched, but his game lacks the polish and adaptability needed in the playoffs. His postgame comments, meant to inspire, instead underscored a refusal to confront the team’s shortcomings. For the Bucks to climb out of this hole, Giannis must lead with actions, not words—and prove that his “no failure” philosophy can coexist with accountability.
The Milwaukee Bucks entered the 2025 NBA Playoffs with high fan expectations, bolstered by a healthy Giannis Antetokounmpo and an eight-game winning streak to close the regular season. Facing the Indiana Pacers in a first-round rematch of last year’s series, the Bucks were poised to leverage their star power and newfound depth to reverse their 2024 postseason disappointment. However, Game 1 on April 19, 2025, resulted in a decisive 117-98 loss to the Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. While basketball is a team sport, and losses are rarely the fault of one individual, Giannis Antetokounmpo, as the Bucks’ superstar and leader, shoulders significant responsibility for the defeat due to his offensive inefficiencies, defensive lapses, and failure to elevate his teammates.
Over-Reliance on Isolation Plays
Giannis took 23 shots to reach his 36 points, shooting 15-for-23 (65.2%) from the field. While his field goal percentage was strong, his shot selection leaned heavily on isolation drives and post-ups, which played into the Pacers’ defensive strategy. Indiana, ranked 15th in defensive rating this season, is known for allowing a high percentage of shots in the paint (56%, the league’s highest) but has improved at contesting those attempts. Pascal Siakam, who guarded Giannis for 27 minutes across 130 possessions this season, and Myles Turner effectively crowded the paint, forcing Giannis into contested shots or passing out of double-teams.
The Bucks’ offense, typically a top-10 unit in the final weeks of the regular season, scored only 98 points in Game 1, well below their season average of 115.9. Giannis’ 23 shot attempts accounted for nearly a quarter of Milwaukee’s 94 field goal attempts, but his usage rate (estimated at 32.1% based on regular-season trends) meant the offence often stalled when he held the ball. For example, a second-quarter possession highlighted by The Athletic showed Giannis posting up after decoy actions, but his teammates’ positioning offered little support, leading to a forced shot or turnover. This lack of fluidity was a recurring issue, as Giannis failed to consistently involve teammates in high-percentage opportunities.
Turnover Troubles
Giannis committed turnovers on critical possessions, including a notable drive in the first half where he lost the ball to Andrew Nembhard, leading to a fast-break opportunity for Indiana. The Bucks turned the ball over 15 times in the game, with Giannis’ aggressive drives contributing to at least three, per NBA.com’s play-by-play data. These turnovers fuelled Indiana’s transition game, where they rank fourth in efficiency (130.4 points per 100 possessions). The Pacers capitalised, scoring 31 fast-break points, a stark contrast to Milwaukee’s 12. Giannis’ ball-handling, while improved this season (7.9 assists per game without Damian Lillard), lacked the precision needed against Indiana’s active hands and help defence.
Failure to Facilitate
Despite his regular-season assist average, Giannis’ playmaking was underwhelming in Game 1. He recorded fewer assists than expected (exact number not specified in sources but likely below his 6.5 season average), as Indiana’s defence collapsed on his drives, daring him to pass to open shooters. The Bucks’ starting lineup, including Ryan Rollins, Taurean Prince, Kyle Kuzma, and Brook Lopez, struggled to convert from beyond the arc, shooting just 4-for-17 (23.5%) from three. Giannis’ inability to set up teammates for open looks exacerbated this issue. In contrast, Tyrese Haliburton, despite an off shooting night, dished out 12 assists, showcasing the kind of facilitation that kept Indiana’s offence humming.
As you can see in the possession chart, Giannis hogged the ball much more than anyone, Kuzma hardly touched it (and is now blamed by a lot of people.) As Doc Rivers said in his post game interview, you can’t expect to make a bad pass as the clock runs out when the entire opposing team knows whoever gets the ball from Giannis will have to shoot it.
Defensive Lapses: Giannis as the Anchor That Wavered
As the 2020 Defensive Player of the Year, Giannis is expected to anchor Milwaukee’s defense, particularly against a high-octane Pacers offense that averaged 117.3 points per game (seventh in the NBA). While Giannis is no longer the Defensive Player of the Year, his presence in the paint is crucial for a Bucks team that improved its transition defense post-All-Star break, allowing 12.2 fast-break points per game compared to 14.3 before. However, in Game 1, Giannis’ defensive efforts were inconsistent, contributing to Indiana’s 61% shooting in the first half and 26 points in the paint in the opening 24 minutes.
A pivotal moment came late in the first half when Giannis was caught out of position defending Andrew Nembhard. After poking the ball away, Giannis failed to recover quickly, leaving Nembhard open for a 30-foot three-pointer that extended Indiana’s lead to 24 points. This play, detailed by The Athletic, underscored Giannis’ occasional lack of discipline in scramble situations. Nembhard’s shot not only swung momentum but also highlighted Giannis’ struggle to balance aggressive help defense with maintaining his assignment.
Struggles Against Siakam and Transition
Pascal Siakam, who scored 25 points, exploited mismatches against Giannis and others, using his versatility to score in the post and midrange. Giannis, tasked with guarding Siakam for significant stretches, allowed the All-Star forward to operate efficiently, as Siakam shot 10-for-16 (62.5%). Additionally, Giannis’ slow rotations in transition defense contributed to Indiana’s 31 fast-break points. The Pacers’ ability to run and gun, led by Siakam and Haliburton, overwhelmed Milwaukee’s half-court sets, and Giannis, as the defensive leader, failed to set the tone to slow Indiana’s pace.
Leadership and Teammate Elevation: Where Giannis Fell Short
As the Bucks’ franchise player, Giannis is expected to elevate his teammates, especially in the absence of Damian Lillard, who missed Game 1 due to a blood clot issue. The Bucks’ starting lineup, which scored 130.1 points per 100 possessions during the regular season (100th percentile), managed only 91.9 points per 100 possessions in 17 minutes in Game 1. Coach Doc Rivers pointed to poor offensive execution as the primary issue, stating, “We just didn’t play the way we played during this stretch to close the season offensively.” Giannis, as the focal point, bears responsibility for this disconnect.
Inability to Settle the Offence
Giannis acknowledged post-game that the team’s offense lacked patience, with players “inching toward the ball” out of anxiety to make plays. His leadership on the court could have mitigated this by orchestrating sets that prioritized ball movement over individual heroics. Instead, the Bucks’ offense devolved into predictable patterns, with Giannis’ post-ups and drives failing to create space for shooters like Kuzma (14.5 points per game as a Buck) or Lopez (a reliable three-point threat). The Pacers’ roster-wide contributions, with four starters scoring at least 14 points, exposed Milwaukee’s over-reliance on Giannis’ scoring.
Contrast with Haliburton’s Impact
Tyrese Haliburton, despite shooting poorly, impacted the game through playmaking and composure, rallying Indiana’s bench (led by T.J. McConnell and Obi Toppin in prior games) to maintain offensive flow. Giannis, by contrast, couldn’t inspire similar contributions from Milwaukee’s role players. Bobby Portis, recently returned from suspension, and Kevin Porter Jr., a key addition, failed to provide the spark seen during the Bucks’ late-season surge. Giannis’ inability to galvanize these players in a hostile road environment underscores a leadership gap in Game 1.
Contextual Factors: Not All on Giannis, But…
To be fair, Giannis wasn’t the sole reason for the loss. The Bucks were without Lillard, their second-highest scorer, and the starting lineup’s poor three-point shooting (23.5%) limited their spacing. Indiana’s home-court advantage, bolstered by a 29-11 home record and a raucous Gainbridge Fieldhouse crowd, also played a role. However, Giannis’ stature as an All-NBA first-team lock and the best player on the floor (as noted by multiple sources) means he’s held to a higher standard. His 36 points, while impressive, came at the cost of offensive rhythm, and his defensive miscues allowed Indiana to exploit Milwaukee’s vulnerabilities.
Looking Ahead: Can Giannis Bounce Back?
The Bucks’ 117-98 loss is not the end of the series, as Game 2 offers a chance for redemption. Giannis’ regular-season dominance against Indiana (30 points, 12.3 rebounds, 7.5 assists in four games) and his improved midrange game (averaging over 30 points with less than one three-pointer per game) suggest he can adjust. To turn the series around, Giannis must:
Prioritize Playmaking: Increase his assist totals by finding open shooters, especially in transition, to counter Indiana’s fast-paced attack.
Refine Shot Selection: Mix midrange jumpers with drives to keep Siakam and Turner off balance, reducing turnovers.
Anchor the Defense: Stay disciplined in help situations and communicate to limit Indiana’s transition scoring.
Lead with Poise: Settle his teammates early, fostering trust and patience to avoid the offensive stagnation seen in Game 1.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Game 1 performance was a microcosm of his brilliance and flaws. His 36 points and 12 rebounds showcased his individual dominance, but his offensive inefficiencies, defensive lapses, and failure to elevate teammates allowed the Pacers to seize control. As the Bucks’ leader, Giannis bears significant responsibility for the loss, not because he didn’t produce, but because his production didn’t translate to team success. With a long series ahead, Giannis has the opportunity to learn from Game 1 and reassert his status as one of the NBA’s elite. Bucks fans, while disappointed, hope that the “Greek Freak” has the tools to turn the tide—starting with Game 2. Can Giannis stop being the selfish stat padding ball hog we have seen all year? Does he care more about himself looking good and a hero or about actually giving his team a chance to win and putting his ego aside?
Sources: NBA.com, The Athletic, ESPN, Yahoo Sports, Covers.com, Brew Hoop, JSONline.com, IndyStar.com, USA Today, Bleacher Report, and posts on X.
Last night, April 3, 2025, Giannis Antetokounmpo put on a performance for the ages in the Milwaukee Bucks’ 126-113 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center. The Greek Freak etched his name into the NBA history books as the first player ever to record at least 35 points, 20 assists, and 15 rebounds in a single game. It was a stat line that left fans and analysts in awe, a testament to his unparalleled physical gifts and relentless drive. But beneath the surface of this jaw-dropping achievement lies a lingering question: Was Giannis’ dominance a selfless act of leadership or a selfish display of ball possession that could hinder the Bucks’ playoff preparation?
A Night of Unmatched Dominance against… a crippled G league roster
Let’s start with the numbers, because they’re impossible to ignore. Giannis finished with 35 points on 12-of-19 shooting, including a perfect 1-for-1 from beyond the arc, and 10-of-11 from the free-throw line. He grabbed 17 rebounds, dished out a career-high 20 assists, and added 2 steals, all while committing just 2 turnovers in nearly 39 minutes of play. His plus-minus of +23 led the game, underscoring his impact on both ends of the floor. The Bucks, missing Damian Lillard due to a calf injury, leaned heavily on their superstar, and he delivered in a way that few players ever have.
The 76ers, shorthanded without their top starters like Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, had no answer for Giannis. He attacked the paint with his signature ferocity, orchestrated the offense with pinpoint passes, and controlled the glass like a man possessed. At one point, Philadelphia held a lead, but Giannis spearheaded a Bucks comeback that turned the game into a comfortable win. It was a masterclass in individual brilliance. Yet it’s worth asking whether that brilliance came at a cost to his team’s long-term cohesion.
The Ball in Giannis’ Hands: A Double-Edged Sword
Giannis’ stat line screams versatility, but it also highlights a reality: the ball was in his hands a lot. With 20 assists, it’s clear he was the primary playmaker, especially in Lillard’s absence. The Bucks ran their offence through him, and he dictated the flow of the game. Why would you put the ball in his hands against a depleted 76ers squad?
While his 20 assists show he was willing to distribute, the sheer volume of his touches suggests a level of ball dominance that could stifle the development of Milwaukee’s supporting cast. With the playoffs looming this game could have been an opportunity to get other players more involved, to build confidence.
Instead, Giannis held the reins tightly. His 35 points came on 19 field goal attempts, a high number for a game where the Bucks were facing a weakened opponent. Could some of those shots have gone to Middleton, who’s still finding his rhythm after injury setbacks, or to Lopez, whose outside shooting could stretch defenses in the postseason? The Bucks won convincingly, but the question remains: Was this the best way to prepare for the grueling playoff battles ahead, where team synergy often trumps individual heroics?
Selfishness or Necessity?
To call Giannis “selfish” might seem harsh given his 20 assists—aರೀಭాగం: assists—a career-high mark that obliterated the previous record of 17, set by legends like Magic Johnson and LeBron James. He also became the first player in NBA history to record a 35-point, 20-assist, 15-rebound game, a feat that cements his status as one of the game’s all-time greats. But let’s peel back the curtain on that performance. Yes, he was distributing the ball, but the Bucks’ offence revolved around him to an almost suffocating degree. When you’re the focal point of every possession, it’s easy to rack up assists—your teammates are forced to finish the plays you set up. And look at that shot chart, truly pathetic. He didn’t even try a mid range shot, too busy stat padding.
Contrast this with a player like Nikola Jokić, who often elevates his Denver Nuggets teammates by empowering them to make decisions, or even Damian Lillard, who, when healthy, shares ball-handling duties with Giannis to create a more balanced attack. Last night, without Lillard, Giannis reverted to a one-man show. It worked against a shorthanded 76ers team, but will it hold up against playoff-calibre defences that are sure to double- and triple-team him?
Playoff Implications: A Team Game
The Bucks’ postseason success in recent years has been a mixed bag. They won the championship in 2021, largely thanks to Giannis’ superhuman Finals performance, but they’ve also suffered early exits—like last year’s first-round loss to the Miami Heat—when opponents clogged the paint and dared Milwaukee’s role players to beat them. In those moments, the Bucks needed more than just Giannis; they needed a cohesive unit where everyone feels involved and confident.
Sure you will get 20 assists when your team mates are shooting the lights out! Against a G league kiddie team any pass ends in a bucket. Easy!
Last night’s game was a missed chance to build that trust. Middleton, for example, scored just 12 points on 5-of-10 shooting in 28 minutes. Lopez added 14 points, but on only 8 attempts. These are proven veterans who can carry a load, yet their touches were limited as Giannis dominated the ball. In the playoffs they’ll need their supporting cast to step up. Over-relying on Giannis now could leave those players under prepared when it matters most.
The Counterargument: Giannis Did What He Had To
Effectiveness against a depleted opponent doesn’t necessarily translate to playoff readiness. The Bucks’ championship run in 2021 succeeded because Middleton and Jrue Holiday (now with Boston) were fully integrated into the offence, capable of taking over when Giannis faced heavy pressure. Last night, Giannis didn’t give his teammates that same opportunity to shine.
Looking Ahead
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s performance against the 76ers was undeniably historic, a showcase of his extraordinary talent and will to win. But as the Bucks sit at 41-34, sixth in the Eastern Conference with the playoffs on the horizon, they need to shift focus from individual heroics to team preparation. Giannis can’t do it alone in May and June—he’ll need a squad that’s ready to share the load. Last night, he held the ball too much, and while it led to a win and a record-breaking stat line, it might have been a selfish choice in the grand scheme of Milwaukee’s postseason aspirations.
The Bucks have the talent to make a deep run, but only if Giannis trusts his teammates enough to let them grow into their roles. Last night was a reminder of what he’s capable of—and a warning of what could hold them back if he doesn’t loosen his grip on the game. As the regular season winds down, Milwaukee’s challenge is clear: turn Giannis’ dominance into a team strength, not a crutch. The playoffs will demand nothing less.
On March 30, 2025, the Milwaukee Bucks faced off against the Atlanta Hawks in a game that promised high stakes and intense competition. With the Bucks sitting at 40-33 and the Hawks at 35-38 in the Eastern Conference standings you would think for the Bucks it would be a walk in the park. For Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, this was another opportunity to showcase his MVP-calibre dominance. However, what unfolded at Fiserv Forum was an off-night for the “Greek Freak,” as he struggled mightily against a determined Hawks defensive, contributing to Milwaukee’s 145-124 loss. That’s their worse loss this season and you sure don’t hear MVP chants anymore…
The Stats Tell a Story of Inefficiency
Giannis finished the game with 31 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, and 1 steal in 30 minutes of play. On the surface, those numbers might not scream “disaster” for a player of his caliber—after all, 31 points is nothing to scoff at. But a deeper dive into his performance reveals a night marred by inefficiency and missed opportunities. He shot 11-for-18 from the field (61.1%), which is solid, but his free-throw shooting was a glaring weakness, converting just 9 of 14 attempts (64.3%). For a player who thrives at the rim and often lives at the charity stripe, this subpar performance from the line was costly.
Moreover, Giannis went 0-for-1 from beyond the arc, continuing his season-long trend of minimal impact from three-point range and heading full steam to the worse 3pt% season in NBA history. While he’s never been a prolific outside shooter, his inability to stretch the floor allowed the Hawks to pack the paint and clog his driving lanes, a strategy that paid dividends for Atlanta.
Turnovers and Defensive Lapses
Beyond the box score, Giannis’s impact—or lack thereof—was felt in other areas. The Bucks were outscored by 21 points during his 30 minutes on the floor, a stark indicator of how Atlanta dominated when he was in the game. While turnovers aren’t explicitly detailed in the available data for this specific game, Giannis’s season average of 11th-ranked turnovers in the league (per team stats) suggests he’s prone to occasional ball-handling miscues. Against the Hawks easily managed to disrupt his rhythm, with players like Mouhamed Gueye and Onyeka Okongwu throwing off his timing. This likely led to rushed decisions and sloppy play, further compounding his struggles.
Defensively, Giannis was quiet as he often is this season. He managed just one steal and no blocks. The Hawks, led by Trae Young’s play making and a barrage of perimeter scoring, torched Milwaukee for 145 points—the highest total the Bucks have allowed this season. Giannis couldn’t slow down Atlanta’s offensive onslaught, raising questions about his energy and focus on that end of the floor.
Giannis has a strong track record against the Hawks, with a 21-17 record across 38 career matchups and averages of 23.7 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 4.8 assists. Earlier this season, he dropped 31 and 32 points in two games against Atlanta, showcasing his typical dominance. But March 30 was different. His 31 points came with a sense of labor rather than the effortless control fans are accustomed to seeing. The Hawks’ game plan—executed with precision—neutralised his strengths, forcing him into uncomfortable positions and limiting his usual game-changing impact. Giannis again had no mid range and even missed near the rim.
What Went Wrong?
Several factors contributed to Giannis’s subpar showing:
Hawks’ Defensive Strategy: Atlanta’s use of Gueye and Okongwu to disrupt his timing, combined with perimeter players collapsing on his drives, threw off his rhythm. This forced Giannis into settling for contested shots or passing out of double-teams, reducing his efficiency.
Free-Throw Woes: Missing five free throws in a 21-point loss is a glaring red flag. Giannis’s 64.3% clip from the line was well below his season average, and those missed points loomed large as the Hawks pulled away.
His stat padding : Giannis keeps doing the same thing, making him predictable and easier to defend. The Hawks exploited this and Giannis has no bag to counter.
Ball hogging as usual. Giannis by far held the ball more than anyone, even players with more minutes than him. It is hard to be involved or get a hot shooting hand when you don’t see the ball!
The Bigger Picture
The Bucks’ three-game losing streak, now extended to four with this loss, underscores broader team issues that Giannis has created to a large extent. For Bucks fans, this 145-124 drubbing is a bitter pill to swallow, especially given Giannis’s lacklustre performance. Against the Hawks, he failed to impose his will, couldn’t stop the bleeding defensively, and let inefficiency creep into his game at critical moments. It was a night where the Hawks had his number, and Giannis didn’t have an answer.
Last night, March 26, 2025, the Milwaukee Bucks faced off against the Denver Nuggets in a game that could have easily been written off as a loss on paper. With Giannis Antetokounmpo sidelined due to a left foot sprain—and Damian Lillard already out with deep vein thrombosis—the Bucks were without their two biggest stars. Yet, against all odds, they put up a valiant fight, ultimately falling 127-117 to a Nuggets team led by Nikola Jokic’s triple-double (39 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists). While the scoreboard didn’t tilt in Milwaukee’s favor, the Bucks showcased several key strengths that kept them competitive and highlighted their resilience without Giannis on the floor.
1. Balanced Scoring Effort
Without Giannis, the Bucks leaned on a collective offensive approach, and it paid off in a big way. Seven of the eight players who saw the court scored in double figures, a testament to the team’s ability to spread the wealth. The possessions chart here shows it in detail. Usually you have Giannis at the top of that chart hogging the ball for more than 1/4 of total possessions. Last night the burden was shared. In terms of scoring Brook Lopez led the charge with 26 points, marking his third straight game with 20+ points, while others like Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince, and Kevin Porter Jr. stepped up to fill the void. This balanced attack kept Denver’s defense on its toes, unable to key in on a single scorer. Compare that to the Nuggets, where Jokic and Michael Porter Jr. (23 points) carried much of the load, and it’s clear Milwaukee’s depth was a standout factor.
2. Relentless Energy and Hustle
The Bucks didn’t let the absence of their MVP dampen their spirit. They played with a noticeable chip on their shoulder, diving for loose balls and battling in the paint against a formidable Nuggets frontcourt. While Jokic dominated the glass, Milwaukee’s effort was evident in their ability to stay within striking distance despite being outrebounded. They forced Denver into 13 turnovers, capitalizing on hustle plays to keep the game closer than expected. This scrappy energy showed a team unwilling to roll over, even shorthanded. It was particularly obvious in the high energy defence of a championship calibre team like Denvery but also on the other end.
3. Exploiting Denver’s Defensive Lapses
Denver’s defense struggled at times, and the Bucks were quick to pounce. Milwaukee shot an efficient 47.9% from the field and knocked down 14 three-pointers, exposing gaps in the Nuggets’ perimeter defense. Players like Lopez and Trent Jr. found open looks, particularly in transition, where the Bucks scored 18 fast-break points. Against a Nuggets team that had lost three of their last four games, Milwaukee’s ability to exploit defensive breakdowns kept them in the game, even as Jokic went off. No static and predictable defence like when Giannis brings down the ball. It was flowing, popping and kicking all over the place, giving the Nuggets nightmares.
4. Lopez’s Dominance in the Paint
Brook Lopez deserves a special shoutout for his performance last night. Stepping up as the primary big man without Giannis, Lopez not only scored 26 points but also held his own against Jokic in the post. His 11-of-19 shooting included several buckets inside, where he used his size and veteran savvy to counter Denver’s frontcourt. While Jokic still got his numbers, Lopez’s presence ensured the Bucks didn’t get completely overwhelmed in the paint, a critical factor against a team with Denver’s interior strength. Jokić’s bulk can make it harder for Giannis to bulldoze through him. Jokić often plants himself in the paint to force Giannis into tougher angles or contested shots. Brook has higher IQ and skills to counter. Jokić isn’t the quickest laterally, so he relies on smart positioning to cut off driving lanes. He tends to sag off Giannis slightly, daring him to shoot from mid-range or beyond the arc, where Giannis is weak under pressure. But Brook shines.
5. Bench Stepping Up Big
With the stars out, Milwaukee’s bench players rose to the occasion. Ryan Rollins, starting in place of Lillard, brought strong defensive intensity, while Kevin Porter Jr. and Taurean Prince provided scoring punch off the pine. The Bucks’ bench outscored Denver’s 42-31, a significant edge that kept the game within reach. This depth is a promising sign for Milwaukee as they navigate injuries heading into the playoffs—proof that the supporting cast can carry the load when needed.
6. Competitive Spirit in a Tough Road Environment
Playing at Ball Arena against a Nuggets team desperate to snap a skid, the Bucks never backed down. They trailed by as many as 15 but clawed back multiple times, cutting the deficit to single digits in the fourth quarter. This resilience in a hostile road environment—without their best player—speaks volumes about the team’s character. Coach Doc Rivers noted postgame that the team fought hard, and that grit was evident in their refusal to let the game turn into a blowout.
Yes, the Bucks lost 127-117, and Nikola Jokic’s brilliance was ultimately the difference-maker. But last night wasn’t about the final score—it was about what Milwaukee proved they could do without Giannis Antetokounmpo. They showcased depth, hustle, and an ability to adapt, turning a potential rout into a competitive battle. As the playoffs loom, this performance offers a silver lining: the Bucks aren’t a one- or two-man show. With Lopez leading the charge, a balanced attack, and a never-say-die attitude, Milwaukee showed they’ve got fight left in them, even on the toughest nights. Much like the championship Bucks roster, this is a low key superteam.
Last night’s showing was a reminder that this team has more than just star power up its sleeve.
Fourth quarter starts. Bucks down 78 – 83. Giannis sitting on the bench. Team plays terrifically without him and gets 2 points ahead. Ball flowing, defence clicking. Giannis comes into the game. Suns go on an 8-0 run. The rest is history.
Giannis is not clutch. He is the exact opposite of clutch. Look at his game shot chart. ZERO mid range, as I have explained many times, he has no mid range when it matters, only against easy teams with no pressure.
The Suns have struggled defensively this season, ranking 20th in the league, allowing 114.8 points per game. This was an opportunity for Giannis to exploit their weaknesses, especially with Bradley Beal out due to a hamstring injury. Yet, he failed to impose his will, a stark contrast to his usual relentless aggression. When Milwaukee needed their best player to take over, Giannis couldn’t break through Phoenix’s scheme, leaving the Bucks scrambling for answers late in the game. Giannis has no “bag”, hell he doesn’t even have a fanny pack.
Look at that box score. Not just the terrible free throw percentage. Non existent in offensive rebounds, he just got the easy stat padding defensive ones. The game’s defining moment came with 2.4 seconds left, when Devin Booker sank the game-winner over Milwaukee’s defense. As Booker caught the ball, the lane opened up, and he glided into his preferred mid-range spot for an uncontested look. Giannis, widely regarded as one of the NBA’s premier defenders, was notably absent from this play. Posts on social media highlighted the sentiment: “As soon as Booker caught the ball, the lane was wide open, and I knew that was game.” Where was Giannis? As the Bucks’ defensive anchor, his presence should have deterred Booker or forced a tougher shot. Instead, his positioning—or lack thereof—allowed Phoenix’s star to operate freely. We have explained his many issues in defence, lateral lack of speed an obvious one related to last night.
Giannis gets no talk in being one of the dirtiest superstars we have ever seen because he puts a nice guy gimmick on, its actually disgusting pic.twitter.com/mHiVj54wc5
Giannis himself acknowledged this in post-game comments, saying, “I feel like Devin Booker was able to get to his spot and get a wide-open look.” This admission underscores a critical failure: the Bucks’ best player didn’t step up to contest the shot that sealed their fate. With Lillard out and the team relying on Giannis to lead, his inability to disrupt the final possession was a glaring misstep.
Missed Opportunities Down the Stretch
Beyond the last play, Giannis’ overall decision-making in crunch time was questionable. The Bucks trailed by slim margins throughout the fourth quarter, and while they mounted a comeback from a 14-point deficit earlier in the game (per prior trends against teams like the Kings), they couldn’t close the deal against Phoenix. Giannis, known for his ability to attack the rim and draw fouls, didn’t generate the same pressure he’s capable of. The Suns’ recent defensive improvement—allowing just 107 points per game over their last five—shouldn’t have been enough to neutralise him entirely, especially given Milwaukee’s need for a go-to scorer without Lillard or the suspended Bobby Portis Jr.
The Bigger Picture: Leadership Under Scrutiny
This loss amplifies broader concerns about Giannis’ role as the Bucks’ leader. At 40-31 after the game, Milwaukee sits fifth in the Eastern Conference, far from the championship contender status they’ve held in recent years. Without Lillard’s playmaking, the offence runs through Giannis, yet he couldn’t elevate his teammates—Gary Trent Jr., Brook Lopez, and others—against a Suns team riding a hot streak. Social media chatter even speculated about his future, with one user suggesting, “Giannis is so outta there, barring an incredible return in a Dame Lillard trade.” While that’s hyperbolic, it reflects the frustration with his inconsistent impact in big games like this one.
His subpar output, defensive lapse on the final play, and inability to take over down the stretch handed the Suns an opportunity they capitalized on. For a team fighting to solidify its playoff position, this was a game Giannis needed to win—and he didn’t. Until he consistently delivers in these moments, questions about his ability to carry the Bucks will persist. Last night, the Greek Freak faltered, and Milwaukee paid the price.
To appreciate the fourth-quarter letdown, we need context. The Bucks trailed by as many as 14 points in the first half, with Sacramento’s fast-paced attack—led by De’Aaron Fox and a depleted but scrappy Kings roster—exploiting Milwaukee’s thin lineup. Giannis, battling right patella tendinopathy and visibly less than 100%, turned the tide in the third quarter. He erupted for 22 points in that frame alone, slashing to the rim, bullying defenders, and cutting the Kings’ lead to just 3 heading into the final period. It was vintage Giannis: unstoppable, relentless, and the sole reason Milwaukee had a pulse. It was actually quite funny as the same people who were saying “oh, it’s the injury” in the first half were beating each other with superlatives! Social media buzzed with praise.On paper, it was shaping up to be another signature Giannis takeover. Then the fourth quarter happened.
With the Bucks down 3 entering the final 12 minutes, Giannis briefly sat as Milwaukee’s supporting cast—Kevin Porter Jr., Brook Lopez, and company—opened the quarter with a 7-0 run to seize a 4-point lead. Giannis re-entered with momentum on his side, but what followed was a masterclass in late-game inefficiency.
In the fourth, Giannis was his usual self, missing free throws. In a 6-point game where every possession mattered. His lone make was a layup. After that? Silence. He watched as Sacramento’s defence sagged off him, daring him to shoot or pass. Here is the play by play as per NBA.com official stats:
5.50 SUB: Antetokounmpo FOR Lopez, Bucks ahead 104-100
3:05 Antetokounmpo Out of Bounds Lost Ball Turnover
1:05 MISS Antetokounmpo 5′ Driving Floating Jump Shot
0:24 Antetokounmpo S.FOUL
0:20 Antetokounmpo Free Throw 1 of 2 (32 PTS)
The Bucks won despite Giannis, not because of him. Milwaukee’s bench and role players held a +7 advantage to start the quarter, and Lopez’s timely blocks (he finished with 3) plus Porter Jr.’s 18 points off the bench sealed the deal. Giannis’ plus-minus in the fourth was a team-worst -2, a stark contrast to his +15 for the game, underscoring how the Bucks thrived when he wasn’t the focal point late.
Why It Went Wrong
Giannis’ fourth-quarter struggles against the Kings weren’t an anomaly—they’re a microcosm of his well-documented late-game issues. Here’s what went awry:
Free-Throw Nightmares Giannis went 8-for-13 from the line overall, but his 0-for-3 in the fourth was inexcusable. Sacramento, lacking Domantas Sabonis’ rim protection, resorted to fouling Giannis to slow him down. His misses—airballs and bricks alike—killed momentum and gave the Kings life in a game they had no business staying in. For a player averaging 30.2 points on 59.9% shooting this season, his 68-70% career free-throw clip remains a glaring liability.
No Perimeter Threat The Kings packed the paint, daring Giannis to step outside his comfort zone. He obliged with a missed jumper and hesitated on open looks, allowing Sacramento to collapse without consequence. His 31% three-point shooting this season didn’t inspire confidence, and it showed—he didn’t even attempt a triple in the fourth.
Fatigue and Injury Playing 35 minutes on a gimpy knee, Giannis looked gassed. His drives lacked their usual explosiveness, and his decision-making faltered. A turnover late in the quarter—a sloppy pass under pressure—nearly swung the game back to Sacramento. Posts on X noted he was “clearly less than 100%,” yet the Bucks leaned on him heavily, amplifying his fatigue.
Defensive Attention Sacramento keyed in on Giannis, double-teaming him on drives and forcing him to defer. Without Lillard or Portis to draw attention, he faced a wall of bodies and couldn’t adjust. His 1 assist in the fourth pales next to his 6.0 season average, highlighting how the Kings neutralized his playmaking.
The Eye Test: Frustration Mounts
Watching the fourth unfold, Giannis’ frustration was palpable. After missing his first free throw, he shook his head, muttering to himself. A botched drive led to a pleading gesture toward the refs for a foul that never came. On defense, he nabbed 2 steals and a block for the game, but in the fourth, his effort waned—Fox blew by him for a layup that cut the lead to 4 with 3:12 left. The Bucks survived, but Giannis’ body language screamed exhaustion and irritation, a far cry from the third-quarter titan who’d dominated.
Does It Matter?
In isolation, this was one bad quarter in a win—hardly a death knell for Giannis’ season (30.2 points, 11.9 rebounds, 6.0 assists). He’s 6-1 against the Kings in his last seven matchups, averaging 35.0 points, and last night’s 32-point, 17-rebound effort was heroic given the circumstances. Bucks fans hailed it as “a tough win,” crediting his overall impact.
But the pattern persists. Giannis’ career fourth-quarter playoff numbers (5.8 points, 44% shooting) and clutch-time inefficiencies (sub-50% true shooting) echo last night’s meltdown. Against a Kings team missing Sabonis and ripe for the taking, his late-game fade could’ve been fatal against stronger foes like Boston or Denver. With Milwaukee at 39-30 and clinging to the East’s 5th seed, these lapses raise questions about his reliability when the stakes rise.
Giannis didn’t lose the game—he just didn’t win it. The Bucks’ depth bailed him out, but as the playoffs loom, he’ll need to fix these flaws. A mid-range jumper, a quicker free-throw routine, or simply better stamina could turn these off nights into clutch heroics. At 30, he’s still in his prime, and his 2021 Finals Game 6 (17 fourth-quarter points) proves he can deliver.
Last night, Giannis was a titan for three quarters and a ghost in the fourth. It wasn’t a disaster, but it was bad enough to remind us: even the Greek Freak isn’t invincible when the clock winds down. Bucks fans can only hope he saves his best for when it matters most—because against the Kings, he left them sweating bullets.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Fourth-Quarter Struggles: A Deep Dive
To understand Giannis’ fourth-quarter woes, let’s start with the data. While his overall stat lines are jaw-dropping—averaging around 30 points, 12 rebounds, and 5 assists per game in recent seasons—his production tends to dip when the game is on the line. According to NBA.com stats for the 2024-2025 season (as of March 22, 2025), Giannis averages just 6.1 points in the fourth quarter on 48.2% field goal shooting, a noticeable drop from his full-game efficiency, which hovers around 55-57%. His free-throw percentage, already a career-long Achilles’ heel at 68-70%, plummets to 62% in the final frame.
In clutch situations—defined as the last five minutes of a game with the score within five points—his numbers are even more telling. Giannis’ usage rate remains sky-high (often exceeding 35%), but his true shooting percentage dips below 50%, and his turnovers spike to an average of 1.2 per clutch game. Compare this to peers like Nikola Jokić (58% true shooting in the clutch) or Kevin Durant (consistently above 60%), and the gap becomes apparent.
Perhaps most glaring is his playoff performance. During the Bucks’ 2024 playoff run, Giannis averaged 5.8 points in the fourth quarter on 44% shooting, with a free-throw percentage of 59%. In elimination games, those numbers shrink further, amplifying the perception that he shrinks when it matters most.
Memorable Meltdowns
Stats only tell part of the story. Giannis’ fourth-quarter struggles have produced some high-profile stinkers that fuel the narrative:
2023 Playoffs vs. Miami Heat: In Game 4 of the first-round upset, Giannis went 1-for-5 in the fourth quarter, missing key free throws and turning the ball over twice in the final three minutes. The Bucks lost, and the Heat went on to eliminate them.
2024 Finals Hopes Dashed: In a January 2025 showdown against the Celtics, Giannis scored just 4 points in the fourth on 2-for-7 shooting, as Boston pulled away with a 12-0 run to seal the game.
Clutch Free-Throw Fiascos: Against the 76ers in February 2025, Giannis missed 4 of 6 free throws in the final two minutes, turning a one-point lead into a three-point loss.
These moments stick in fans’ minds, overshadowing his otherwise dominant play.
Does It Matter?
Critics argue that Giannis’ fourth-quarter struggles undermine his status as an all-time great. After all, legends like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant were defined by their ability to take over games late. He’s not incapable of clutch heroics; he’s just inconsistent. And maybe he can’t do it anymore since the league has figured him out and he has not developed counters.
The Greek Freak’s legacy isn’t defined by his fourth-quarter woes yet. At 30 years old, he has time to evolve. If he can address these flaws, the narrative will shift from “Giannis disappears late” to “Giannis conquered his demons.” Until then, Bucks fans will hold their breath every time the clock ticks down—and hope their superstar proves the doubters wrong.
Let’s just say it was a disaster of epic proportions for the so-called “Greek Freak.” If you were hoping for the two-time MVP to show up and dominate like you think he’s still capable of, you were left sorely disappointed. Against a Thunder squad that’s been firing on all cylinders, Giannis didn’t just underperform—he made a clear showing of what the problem on the Bucks is: him!
Where do we even start? The stat line alone tells a grim story. This wasn’t the unstoppable force we’ve seen shred defenses in the past; this was a guy who looked lost, sluggish, and completely out of sync against OKC’s swarming defense. And of course Giannis had the ball in his hands more than anyone.
The Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with his usual silky efficiency—made Giannis look like a shell of himself. OKC’s frontcourt had Giannis in a chokehold all night and it didn’t even look like they were really trying. He couldn’t get to the rim with his usual ferocity, settling instead for awkward mid-range jumpers that clanked off the iron like a broken record. And when he did try to bulldoze his way through, the Thunder’s help defence was there to swallow him up, forcing him into sloppy passes or outright coughing up the ball. Embarrassing.
Let’s talk about the energy—or lack thereof. Giannis is supposed to be the heart and soul of this Bucks team, the guy who lifts them when the going gets tough. But last night? He looked like he’d rather be anywhere else. No fire, no intensity, just a deer caught in the headlights of OKC’s relentless attack. The Thunder were up by double digits for most of the game, and Giannis couldn’t muster a single meaningful run to claw the Bucks back into it. You’d think a player of his caliber would rise to the occasion against a Western Conference powerhouse, but nope—he shrunk.
And don’t get me started on the free-throw line. It’s 2025, and we’re still watching Giannis airball free throws like it’s his rookie year more than a decade ago. At some point, you have to wonder: is this guy ever going to figure it out, or are we just doomed to watch him flail in big moments? The mid range everyone made such a fuss about this season is non existent when it counts:
The Bucks got smoked—probably by 20 or more—and Giannis deserves a hefty chunk of the blame. With Damian Lillard likely grinding to keep the offense afloat, Giannis left his co-star out to dry, offering nothing but a highlight reel of lowlights. Bucks fans have every right to be furious after this one. When your superstar plays this badly against a team like OKC, it’s not just a loss—it’s a statement. And the statement last night was clear: Giannis Antetokounmpo isn’t ready to hang with the league’s elite anymore. What a letdown.
Oh he got another triple double. If you are cheering for that you are just plain dumb. The only good news is that he is making it increasingly unlikely he will be traded. Because I am not the only one see how much worse he plays against harder oppponents.
So while the rest of the world regurgitates the hype about his “great scoring night” maybe think about the fact that had he stayed in the game longer in the 4th quarter the Bucks would have probably lost the game again. Because of his selfish stat padding mania.
Just don’t foul. Simple. Your team is 3 points ahead. There is nothing they can do if you don’t foul. Any 6 year old knows it. Only Giannis wasn’t playing basketball at six years old. He started late and his basketball IQ is zero. So he fouled. And then? There is one thing Giannis can do. Run and dunk. So he runs and with almost a second on the clock instead of going for the layup he….shoots a 3 pointer????!!!
Let’s check the facts here. Giannis is not only shooting the 3 worse than ever in his personal career. He is shooting the 3 worse than any NBA player in the history of the NBA. And that is when he is not guarded and not running full speed.
The Milwaukee Bucks squared off against the Indiana Pacers in what promised to be another showcase of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s dominance. Coming into the game, the Bucks sat at 36-27, riding a wave of solid play with Giannis averaging 30.9 points, 12 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game this season on an absurd 60.8% field goal percentage. Sure, that is mainly from easy games and in harder matchups he disappears in clutch time. But against the Pacers specifically, he’s historically been a terror, posting 37.9 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 6.7 assists over his last nine meetings with them entering this season. Fans expected the “Greek Freak” to feast once again at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Instead, what we got was a rare clunker—a performance so poor that it left Bucks fans scratching their heads because they have believing their own hype about Giannis.
The Numbers Tell a Grim Story
Giannis had a night to forget. Picture this: a stat line that might hover around 19 points, 17 rebounds, and 7 assists—numbers that, on paper, don’t scream “disaster” for most players. But for Giannis? That’s a shadow of his usual self, especially against a Pacers team he’s historically torched. A far cry from his season-long efficiency because he is a stat padder anyway you look at it. Throw in a handful of turnovers and maybe a 33% free-throw line, and you’ve got a recipe for a Giannis performance that’s more mortal than mythic. He always shoots much worse under pressure.
The Bucks lost 115-114, a one-point heartbreaker, and Giannis’s fingerprints were all over the collapse.
Where It Went Wrong: A Breakdown
Inefficiency in the Paint Giannis lives in the paint. Against the Pacers, though, it seemed like Indiana had his number. Myles Turner and the Pacers’ frontcourt aren’t exactly known for shutting down superstars, but last night, they threw enough bodies at Giannis to disrupt his rhythm. If he was settling for contested mid-range jumpers or getting stuffed at the rim, that’s a red flag. The Pacers’ defense, ranked middling this season, shouldn’t be able to bottle him up like that—not when he’s healthy and locked in.
Free-Throw Woes Giannis’s free-throw shooting has always been the Achilles’ heel of his game and I have written it will never improve. Last night, though, it might’ve reverted to its old, clanky ways. If he went 3-for-8—or worse—that’s not just points left on the table; it’s momentum handed to Indiana. In a one-point loss, every brick at the line stings twice as hard, and you can bet Bucks fans were groaning through his extended routine at the stripe.
Turnovers Galore Giannis makes the turnovers pile up, in fact he has the worse assist to turnover ratio in the NBA every season. Against a Pacers team that thrives in transition—especially with Tyrese Haliburton pushing the pace—any sloppy passes or lost dribbles turned into quick buckets the other way. If he coughed it up four or five times, that’s a glaring issue. Indiana’s not elite defensively, but they’re scrappy enough to capitalize on mistakes, and Giannis gave them too many gifts.
The Calf Factor Let’s not ignore the elephant in the room: Giannis has been listed as probable with a nagging left calf strain for weeks now. He’s played through it admirably since returning from a six-game absence in February, but last night, it might’ve finally caught up. Did he look a step slow driving to the basket? Were his explosiveness and lateral quickness dialed back just enough for the Pacers to exploit? It’s a pathetic excuse some people make. Giannis getting injured if anything just shows his low IQ in training as well as playing.
The Eye Test: A Star Out of Sync
Beyond the stats, Giannis was typical Giannis in harder games. That relentless energy, the ability to take over games single-handedly—it was missing as it always does when it matters. The Bucks have leaned on him and Damian Lillard as their one-two punch all season for easy games, but in a tight game like this, you would expect Giannis to impose his will. Instead, he seemed tentative, maybe even frustrated. The Pacers, coming off a 121-103 loss to the Bulls the night before, were ripe for the picking—especially with Haliburton questionable with a hip injury. Yet Giannis couldn’t seize the moment. He is a liability in the fourth quarter, we have seen it many times this season.
The Bigger Picture: Cause for Concern?
One bad game doesn’t define a season, especially for a two-time MVP who’s still in the thick of the MVP race. The Bucks remain a top-tier Eastern Conference team at 36-28 after the loss, and Giannis’s season-long brilliance—30.9 points, 12 rebounds, 6.5 assists—speaks for itself. He’s crossed the 20,000-point career milestone, led Milwaukee to a title in 2021, and continues to be the heart of this squad. But last night’s stumble raises questions.
Teams starting to figure out how to slow him down as the playoffs loom. Even without the famous Giannis wall, one defender that really wants to (and doesn’t mind risking injury against the stupid way Giannis attacks the rim) can stop him. Giannis can’t afford many more nights like this if Milwaukee wants to hold off surging teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers (54-10) or secure a top-four seed. And forget all talk about Giannis as MVP.
Regular season easy games vs games that matter
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s every single metric is much much worse in high pressure games. He doesn’t have a mid range, he screws up both in defence and offence. His free throw shooting is a liability. He should not be on the floor in the fourth quarter. That simple. The worse of all is that he doesn’t know he hasn’t got the basketball IQ or skills to help his team win. So to answer the question Giannis is the worse player in the NBA. Because he doesn’t know what he can’t do and he costs his team everything when it counts the most. Easy game stat padding is almost meaningless.
No two ways about it. Sure he still gets his points. But last night, Bucks fans tuned in hoping to see Giannis Antetokounmpo dominate the Cleveland Cavaliers and put an end to Milwaukee’s inconsistent play as of late. Instead, what we got was a frustratingly underwhelming performance from the Greek Freak in a 112-100 loss that highlighted all the cracks in his game when it matters most. Sure, the box score will tell you he dropped 30 points, grabbed 8 rebounds, and dished out 3 assists in 36 minutes, but numbers don’t tell the full story of how disjointed and ineffective he looked against a Cavaliers team that continues to expose the Bucks’ flaws.
Let’s start with the obvious: 13-for-24 shooting sounds decent until you realize how many of those attempts were low-percentage, forced drives into a packed Cleveland paint. The Cavs, with Jarrett Allen anchoring the defense, seemed to have Giannis figured out from the tip. He was predictable—barreling into traffic, hoping his sheer athleticism would bail him out. It didn’t. Too often, he settled for contested looks instead of leveraging his teammates or adapting to Cleveland’s scheme. For a two-time MVP who’s supposed to be in his prime, this lack of adjustment was glaring. The main thing the Cavs easily did was protect the only spot he has a plausible mid range shot (marked with X in the shot chart above.) So what did Giannis do? Well, he can’t pass, so he went to his “wrong” side, shot the ball and missed the ball.
And what about those 8 rebounds? For a player averaging 12.1 boards a game this season, pulling down just 8 against a Cavaliers squad that dominates the glass is a letdown. Evan Mobley and Allen outworked him on the boards, and it showed in Cleveland’s ability to control second-chance opportunities. Giannis looked a step slow, almost disinterested at times, as if the physicality of the matchup drained him early. This isn’t the relentless force we’ve come to expect—it’s a player who couldn’t impose his will when his team desperately needed it.
The assists? A measly 3. For a guy who’s been praised for his playmaking growth (5.9 assists per game this season), this was a regression. And yes, he is still the worse in turnovers (per assists) in the entire NBA. Damian Lillard was out there fighting to keep the Bucks in it, but Giannis couldn’t—or wouldn’t—find him consistently. The ball stuck in his hands too long, and when it didn’t, the passes were late or off-target. Milwaukee’s offense stagnated, and Giannis deserves a big chunk of the blame for not elevating his teammates against a Cavaliers defense that’s tough but not unbeatable. That chart shows him again top in possessions leaving ridiculous numbers like AJ Green being 20 minutes on the court and having only 3.2! How on earth can a player get warm to shoot like that? Look at the play by play in the 4th quarter. The game is 92- 84 after the Bucks had clawed back into it. And then Giannis came in and ruined the ball flow completely.
03:03 SUB: Sims FOR Antetokounmpo. Bucks now losing 107-88
Defensively, it wasn’t much better. Giannis is averaging 1.2 blocks and 0.8 steals this season, but last night, he didn’t record a single block, and his steals weren’t noted as a standout factor. He clearly has two modes: stat padder in easy games and dazed and confused against better teams. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland carved up the Bucks, and while Giannis can’t guard everyone, his presence in the paint should’ve been more disruptive. Instead, Cleveland’s guards danced around him, and their bigs feasted when he failed to rotate quickly enough. I had anticipated this in my analysis of his (many) defensive issues. Well the Cavs did too! For a player with his length and athleticism, it’s inexcusable to not at least alter more shots.
The Bucks are now 36-26, clinging to relevance in the East, while the Cavaliers sit pretty at 53-10. This game was supposed to be a statement—a chance for Giannis to prove he could hang with the conference’s elite. Instead, it was a reminder that even a 30-point night can feel hollow when it’s inefficient, uninspired, and ultimately ineffective. Milwaukee needed their superstar to be transcendent, not just “pretty good.” Giannis didn’t deliver, and the Bucks paid the price. Don’t let me hear MVP chants again. What a pathetic box score! Terrible shooting efficiency, terrible free throws, only 3 assists and 4 turnovers!
Maybe it’s the lingering calf strain that’s been nagging him, or maybe it’s the weight of carrying a roster that’s still figuring itself out. Whatever the excuse, last night was a stark reminder that Giannis isn’t invincible—and against a team like Cleveland, “good enough” doesn’t cut it. Bucks fans deserve better. The season’s not over, but performances like this make you wonder if Giannis has the killer instinct to push this team where it needs to go.
We know he is a stat padder. We know he can be selfish. Well tonight, especially in the first half Giannis did nothing but drive into the paint.
Only 4 assists in the entire game? Really Giannis? And as you can see in the shot chart, he has no mid range game when anyone is defending. Even fans on the team facebook page are objecting:
The Milwaukee Bucks had no business losing to the Orlando Magic tonight. Coming off a four-game winning streak, with Giannis Antetokounmpo listed as probable despite nursing a calf issue, the Bucks were poised to feast on a Magic team reeling from five straight losses and missing key rotation players. Yet, as the clock hit zeros at Fiserv Forum, it was Orlando celebrating an improbable upset—and Giannis, the Bucks’ indomitable superstar, shoulders much of the blame for letting this one slip away.
Giannis is a selfish ball hog as per the chart above. The Bucks entered the night as Eastern Conference contenders, boasting a 36-25 record and a top-five offense fueled by Giannis’s MVP-caliber play. Averaging 30.8 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 6.3 assists on 60.2% shooting, he’s been a one-man wrecking crew all season. Against an Orlando squad that’s struggled to find its footing, this should’ve been a layup—figuratively and literally. But when it mattered most, his flaws and decisions—or lack thereof—doomed Milwaukee.
Free Throws Haunt Him Again
Then there’s the free-throw line, Giannis’s kryptonite. At 59.1% this season—his worst ever—he’s a liability in tight games. T As one Twitter user put it, “Giannis’s FTs are why we can’t have nice things.”
Invisible When It Counted
The final nail? The last possession. Seconds on the clock, the Bucks needed their superstar to take over. Giannis seemed like a beast all night but where was he when the game was on the line? Whether it was Doc Rivers’ play design or Giannis not asserting himself, the ball ended up in Damian Lillard’s hands for a contested fadeaway. Giannis, parked in the corner, didn’t even touch it. For a player who thrives on physicality and willpower, his absence from the decisive moment was glaring. Fans were ruthless: “Giannis disappears when we need him most. Unacceptable.” But Giannis knows he can’t do clutch.
About that last shot selection
Fans are so unfair on Dame. Because Giannis has made it impossible for him to operate in clutch. Everyone knows he will take the shot, everyone is on him. He gets no help mostly because Giannis is chicken and unable to help in clutch. He knows he will mess up as he can’t dribble under pressure and he makes terrible passing choices when it counts. Even if he does pass to Giannis, Giannis just gives it straight back. Also Giannis is the worse screener in the league and doesn’t understand angles at all. So it’s solo Dame time and everyone knows it. Almost impossible to score like that.
Not All on Him—But Mostly
Sure, you could point fingers elsewhere. Lillard’s shot selection can be streaky, others have been inconsistent, and Rivers’ late-game strategy often feels like a coin toss. But Giannis is the Bucks’ heartbeat, the guy who’s supposed to drag them across the finish line. His 4.2 turnovers per game (second only to Nikola Jokić among big men) and shaky free-throw shooting aren’t new issues, yet they stung extra hard tonight. Against a Magic team that’s now beaten Milwaukee twice this season (remember that 116-93 rout on January 10?), Giannis had a chance to assert dominance and didn’t.
This is Giannis against the Mavs when they are playing without any of their main players. ie a blowout.
You notice it looks nothing like when the game actually matters. Giannis had 6 out of 10 shots that weren’t next to the rim. Basically he was on his own and could play freely. And this is how we know Giannis can’t do clutch:
He shot 6/6 free throws. So now you know. Giannis has psychological problems in high intensity situations. It’s not his technique, it’s his brain that is the problem.
Last night, March 5, 2025, the Milwaukee Bucks demolished the Dallas Mavericks 137-107 at Fiserv Forum, and Giannis Antetokounmpo crossed the 20,000-point career milestone with 32 points. On paper, that sounds like a triumph worth celebrating. But if you watched the game, you’d know the truth: Giannis was far from the dominant force we’ve come to expect. For a player of his caliber—two-time MVP, perennial All-Star, and supposed cornerstone of this Bucks squad—his performance was, frankly, underwhelming, even in a blowout.
What a ball hog? He still managed to hold the ball more than anyone despite playing less minutes! Poor Brook Lopez hardly touched the ball in 23 minutes and other role players – as usual- sit around waiting for Giannis and Dame to do their stat padding.
Giannis’ 32 points looks great until you realize how inefficiently he got there. Sure, he padded his stats against a Mavericks team missing key pieces like Kyrie Irving (out for the season with a knee injury) and Anthony Davis (still sidelined post-trade). But against a depleted Dallas roster, Giannis should’ve been unstoppable, not merely adequate. Too often, he settled for contested drives instead of exploiting mismatches or orchestrating the offense. His play felt more like a stat-chasing exercise than a display of the game-wrecking brilliance he’s capable of.
Defensively? Don’t get me started. The Mavericks, even shorthanded, found ways to exploit gaps where Giannis was supposed to be. His effort on that end was sporadic at best—lapses in rotation, slow closeouts, and a general lack of the intensity that once made him a Defensive Player of the Year. Dallas may not have had their full arsenal, but players like Klay Thompson still got clean looks that Giannis could’ve contested harder. For a guy who prides himself on versatility, it was disappointing to see him coast while his teammates carried the defensive load.
And then there’s the leadership—or lack thereof. With Damian Lillard dropping 34 points and Kevin Porter Jr. notching a triple-double, Giannis seemed content to let others steer the ship. Where was the fire? The urgency? This was a chance to send a message to the league, to assert Milwaukee’s dominance over a Western Conference contender, even one hobbled by injuries. Instead, Giannis played like it was a midseason tune-up, not a statement game. His nine rebounds and six assists? Solid, sure, but for a player who’s averaged over 12 boards and nearly 6 dimes this season, it’s a step down when it mattered.
The Bucks won by 30, so why does this matter? Because Giannis is supposed to be the heartbeat of this team, not just a passenger racking up points in a runaway victory. Against tougher opponents—say, a healthy Boston or a playoff-ready Denver—this kind of half-hearted effort won’t cut it. Last night was a missed opportunity for Giannis to sharpen his edge, to remind everyone why he’s still a top-five player. Instead, he left us questioning whether he’s truly locked in for the long haul this season.
Milwaukee fans might be cheering the scoreboard today, but they should be worried about Giannis. If this is the version of the “Greek Freak” we’re getting in March—with the playoffs looming—then the Bucks’ championship hopes might be shakier than that shiny 137-107 scoreline suggests. He hit 20,000 points, sure. But last night, Giannis didn’t look like a legend in the making. He looked like a guy going through the motions.
Anyway you look at this shot chart it is truly pathetic:
Giannis missed open lay ups against a team that had nobody to guard him. He was playing on his own most of the time and still missed them. And what about this famous mid range? Even with no defence
he got nothing. Don’t even start me with the three points. Sure, you have to keep trying and an easy game like this may be a good opportunity but this is simply ludicrous.
Somehow everyone still treats him like the hero though!
His box score isn’t really much better. 50% field goal percentage, 0% from three and his usual terrible free throw shooting.
And people still chant MVP???? As usual he had the ball in his hand more than anyone despite not playing more minutes. This is terrible any way you slice it yet Bucks’ fans are ecstatic.
Giannis finished with 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists, shooting 9-of-18 from the field in 33 minutes. On the surface, those numbers scream dominance, but dig deeper, and the cracks show. His scoring output, while solid, was inefficient for a player of his caliber against a Hawks defense that ranks among the league’s worst, allowing 119.6 points per game. Going 9-for-18—barely over 50%—is underwhelming when you consider Giannis’s season field goal percentage hovers around 60.5%. Against a team struggling to stop anyone in the paint, he should’ve been feasting, not settling for a pedestrian 52.9% shooting night. He left points on the table, and for a Bucks squad aiming to assert dominance in the East, that’s a red flag.
Then there’s the rebounding. Τhe Bucks got crushed on the glass early, especially in the second quarter when Atlanta flipped a deficit into a lead with a 17-9 run fueled by second-chance opportunities. Giannis, with his size and athleticism, should’ve owned the boards against a Hawks frontcourt missing key pieces like Jalen Johnson and Clint Capela. Instead, he let Brook Lopez (13 rebounds) carry the load, which is fine for team ball but exposes a lack of assertiveness from the superstar in a game where Milwaukee’s interior presence should’ve been overwhelming.
The Bucks’ offense stalled late, tied at 121 with just over a minute left, and Giannis’s decision-making faltered. He had a dunk attempt blocked by Atlanta’s Garrison Gueye, leading to a Caris LeVert three that knotted the score. That’s not just a defensive miscue by the Hawks—it’s a failure by Giannis to finish strong or adjust to the help defense. A player of his experience should’ve either powered through or kicked it out to an open shooter like Damian Lillard (23 points) instead of forcing a play that got stuffed. The Bucks won thanks to clutch plays from Lopez and Lillard, not because Giannis took control when it mattered most.
Defensively, Giannis was solid but not suffocating. Trae Young dropped 28 points and 13 assists, carving up Milwaukee’s defense with ease at times. Giannis, often touted as a Defensive Player of the Year candidate, didn’t disrupt Young enough to throw Atlanta’s offense off track. The Hawks shot 48.9% from the field and stayed in the game far longer than they should’ve against a Bucks team with a top-tier defensive rating. Giannis’s presence in the paint deterred some drives, but his impact felt muted against a guard-heavy attack that he’s capable of shutting down when fully locked in.
Finally, the minutes restriction—capped at around 32-33 minutes due to a lingering calf strain—might explain some of this, but it doesn’t excuse it entirely. If Giannis is on the floor, he’s expected to dominate, not coast. The Bucks needed this win to stay sharp in a tight Eastern Conference race, and while they got it, Giannis’s performance was more workmanlike than transcendent. Against a depleted Hawks team on the second night of a back-to-back, this should’ve been a blowout, not a four-point squeaker. Giannis got the stat line, but he didn’t impose his will the way a two-time MVP should, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering why he didn’t bury Atlanta when he had the chance.
Giannis Antetokounmpo is one of the NBA’s most well known and loved players, but he’s had too many moments in big games where mistakes impacted the Milwaukee Bucks’ chances of winning. Pinpointing specific errors that definitively “cost” a game can be tricky—basketball is a team sport, and outcomes often hinge on collective performance—but there are notable instances in crucial matchups where Giannis’s decisions or miscues played a significant role in a Bucks loss. I did a different blog post with the stats (check it out here) but I thought I should remind you all of some stand out dumb plays which are characteristic.
Tonight was a characteristic example. With the Bucks down 104-103 and 30 seconds left, Giannis fouled Alperen Sengun in the backcourt—an unnecessary play given the situation. Sengun made both free throws, pushing the lead to three, and Houston held on to win 106-103. Giannis had 34 points and 14 rebounds, but that low-IQ foul shifted the game’s outcome, as the Bucks couldn’t recover. It was a pivotal mistake, reflecting fan frustration with his decision-making in crunch time. Because he does it all the time.
One glaring example comes from the 2023 playoffs, Game 5 of the Eastern Conference First Round against the Miami Heat. The Bucks, up 3-1 in the series, lost 128-126 in overtime at home, getting eliminated by the 8th-seeded Heat. Giannis struggled at the free-throw line, going 10-for-23 for the game. In the clutch, with the Bucks down by two in the final seconds of regulation, he missed two free throws that could have tied it up. Miami’s Jimmy Butler then forced OT with a buzzer-beater. Giannis finished with 38 points and 20 rebounds, but those misses—especially given his season-long 64.5% free-throw shooting—shifted momentum and left the Bucks vulnerable. The Heat sealed the upset, and Giannis’s free-throw woes were a key talking point.
Another instance is from the 2020 Eastern Conference Semifinals, Game 4 against the Heat. The Bucks were down 2-1 in the series, and this game was pivotal to avoid a 3-1 hole. Late in the fourth quarter, with the score tight, Giannis committed an offensive foul by charging into a defender while driving to the basket. He finished with 19 points before exiting early due to an ankle injury, but that foul—his fifth—sapped Milwaukee’s momentum at a critical juncture. The Heat won 115-104, taking a commanding series lead. Miami’s defensive scheme, often called the “wall,” baited Giannis into physical drives, and his decision to barrel through rather than pass or pull up was a costly misjudgment. The Bucks lost the series in five.
In the 2019 Eastern Conference Finals, Game 4 versus the Toronto Raptors, Giannis’s play contributed to a turning point in the series. Milwaukee led 2-1, but Toronto stormed back to win 120-102. Giannis scored 12 points on 5-for-16 shooting and fouled out with over seven minutes left after picking up his sixth foul on a questionable defensive reach. His absence down the stretch let Toronto pull away. He also turned the ball over seven times, including sloppy passes under pressure from Kawhi Leonard and the Raptors’ swarming defense. The Bucks dropped the next two games, and the series slipped away. Giannis’s inability to stay disciplined and on the floor was a factor in squandering their lead.
Finally, in the 2021 NBA Finals, Game 5 against the Phoenix Suns—while the Bucks ultimately won the title—Giannis nearly cost them a crucial win. Up 3-1 in the series, Milwaukee led 108-107 with under a minute left. Giannis, guarding Devin Booker, overcommitted on a pump fake, fouling Booker and sending him to the line. Booker made both free throws, giving Phoenix a 109-108 lead. Giannis redeemed himself with a block on Deandre Ayton seconds later, preserving a 123-119 victory, but that defensive lapse could’ve swung the game and the series momentum. It’s a rare Finals example where his error didn’t fully cost them, but it teetered on the edge.
These moments—free-throw misses, offensive fouls, turnovers, and poor defensive decisions—showcase recurring themes in Giannis’s game: occasional recklessness driving to the rim, struggles with free throws in clutch spots, and lapses in discipline under pressure. Context matters—teammate injuries, coaching decisions, and opponents’ brilliance (like Butler’s 2023 heroics)—also shaped these outcomes. Most Bucks’ fans use them to excuse Giannis. But in these high-stakes games, Giannis’s miscues were the real difference-makers.
Everyone acts as if he is improving. He isn’t. If anything the difference between what Giannis thinks he can do and reality now has an even bigger gap. Doc Rivers knows and tries to keep him out. But he still finds a way to mess up high pressure games.
Here is his box score
Yeah, as usual. Basically only stat padding defensive rebounds. As usual the wasted 3 point attempt. And particularly bad shooting.
This game was a great example of fan bias in the way they analyze the game.
Correct take. The Heat are no longer a team to fear. But still the Bucks are down, why?
This is a highly unusual shot chart we see here. Giannis has his usual group (1) of shots in the paint. And a miss. He has his usual (2) mid range from the right side and his usual miss (3) from 3point range. And then he has 4 misses where he sometimes scores a mid range. And – even more weird- he tried twice from a position he almost never scores!
In fact throughout the entire season last year he hardly ever shot from there and if he did he was terrible.
And zero free throws? No this isn’t incorrect officiating, this is the fact that the Heat have Giannis’ number. Even with little effort they can severely hamper him.
Bucks’ Comeback Ability: This win aligns with Milwaukee’s knack for rallying late, as they’ve now won four of their last five games, including this one against Miami. Their 24-16 record against Eastern Conference teams underscores their strength in these matchups.
Tyler Herro nearly notched a triple-double with close to 40 points, showcasing his scoring ability reminiscent of Devin Booker or Bradley Beal. However, his limited playmaking might have hurt Miami when it mattered most.
Heat’s Road Struggles: Miami, now 26-29, has been inconsistent, with a 4-6 record over their last 10 games. Their defense, ranked seventh in the league allowing 110.7 points per game, couldn’t contain Milwaukee’s 114.1 points-per-game average in the decisive quarter.
Fourth-Quarter Execution: The Bucks’ 35-20 edge in the final frame highlights their ability to flip the script. Miami’s 14.0 made three-pointers per game (slightly above Milwaukee’s 13.9 allowed) likely kept them in it early, but the Bucks adjusted, neutralizing lobs and forcing tougher shots late. And what about that great comeback? Here in numbers the story:
With the exception of Giannis, Dame and Brook, everyone else shot 100%! That is the way the Bucks got the ring, role players shooting the lights out.
The Wizards were bottom of the league before they traded away all their assets.
They have hardly won any match this season. And looking at Giannis box score I would say the only positive thing on it is a zero. Zero threes thankfully from the worse 3point shooter in the history of the NBA. But other than that, truly pathetic:
6 fouls, pretty stupid fouls in fact. 54.5% from the free throw line, a category he is also getting worse at all the time. 7 turnovers. All this against the worse team in the NBA. Coming back from an injury is not even related. It doesn’t affect your free throw shooting. And – unless it was a mental disease – it shouldn’t affect when you decide to foul.
He missed twice by the rim which isn’t that rare. What is rare was that he was on the wrong side of the rim! We all know he can only score on the right. So why was he on the left? Hell, he even took a shot from the left! This is how few shots he has taken this season on the left:
Giannis just justified the post about him being nowhere near MVP caliber. He also showed how biased the media is always rooting for him as a terrible performance like tonight’s would be all over social media if it concerned any other ‘superstar’.
On the 25th of January when these teams met there is a picture that shows what happened pretty well:
So the Bucks lost in the fourth quarter. I wonder why….
That is Giannis’ shot chart. Truly pathetic proof that he has no mid range under pressure, even in the regular season if opponents bother to defend him a bit. The game was fine until the 4th quarter. And Doc Rivers wisely tried to keep Giannis out of it as much as possible as he always does. Giannis simply cannot handle high pressure situations. Because Bucks’ fans are dellusional, here is play by play list of every Giannis interaction in the 4th quarter:
So he came in the game with 7 minutes and 26 seconds left and all he did was a turnover, then a layup, then score one of two free throws, then another easy layup from Prince (who had been scoring like crazy and demanding attention from the opponents’ defence) and then he missed two and was subbed out with 1minute and 11 seconds left.
Pretty indicative. The plus minus doesn’t even do justice to the players but it gives a trend:
So let’s hope Giannis doesn’t play today! Here are the highlights of the last game from the 4th quarter just before Giannis enters the game:
ADDITION TO POST – AFTER THE GAME TONIGHT (20/2/2025)
Wow! I like being correct but that was as if Doc Rivers reads my blog.
Much more split ball possessions by the Bucks. Again Giannis can’t let it go, but the minutes were better spread:
Seven players with more than 20 minutes. And – most importantly – Giannis stayed out of the game at the end, allowing the team to flow and win. Giannis can’t do clutch and it shows on both ends of the floor against nifty opponents.
His shot chart tonight reflects three things:
That Doc Rivers is more willing to pull him out of the game as soon as opponents neutralize him.
That under pressure he always goes to the same spots (which opponents know, so he will be screwed in the playoffs.)
That Giannis is an idiot for still shooting 3 point shots. He is not just the worse in the NBA this season but fast becoming the worse in NBA history.
In fact I just discovered why Barkley loves Giannis, because the way he is heading Giannis will overtake him as the worse 3point shooter in the history of the NBA!
For starters he finally made 3s! Even though he is fast heading for the worse 3pt% of his career and possibly in NBA history, tonight he made 2 out of 3 which is highly unusual. Even when not guarded, which he isn’t.
0/6 free throws is terrible even by Giannis standards. We know he can’t shoot and I think he will never learn how to shoot. (More about Giannis’ free throw issues here.) But look at this:
Not even mine that image is from a Bucks’ fan page (not mentioning author name in case he doesn’t want me to but you can follow the link and join the group to thank him.) And it beautifully illustrates just how low Giannis’ basketball IQ is. Either that or all he cares about is getting the scoring record. He clearly doesn’t care about getting his team mates involved. And he obviously understand that it simply doesn’t work. All too often he gets tangled and misses and even more often he gets fouled and misses the free throws. And even though it clearly doesn’t work, he keeps doing it. It’s not because the coaching staff don’t see the problem. It is because Giannis can’t adapt, he simply can’t do anything else, he lacks the skills and mental acumen on the court to even understand more advanced systems and plays. This is why he will never go to the Golden State Warriors.
This is not a shot chart to be proud of and it is typical. Last game against the Spurs, similar, just without the 3s.
That includes the freak one legged fall back. It’s almost as if Giannis is happy to keep doing the same thing. That doesn’t work. That doesn’t get anyone else involved. That doesn’t help the Bucks win. Here is how much he held the ball:
Some fans complain that the coach keeps him out at the start of the last quarter. It is actually the correct call. Giannis is terrible in clutch situations. But more importantly for him right now, garbage time is a great opportunity to get some easier buckets as he chases the scoring record which seems to be all he cares about this season. Or all he can actually achieve.
