Greek Freak Analyzed

Tag: accolades

  • EuroBasket 2025 Represents Giannis’ Antetokounmpo’s Best Shot at International Glory with Greece

    EuroBasket 2025 Represents Giannis’ Antetokounmpo’s Best Shot at International Glory with Greece

    As the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 tournament unfolds across Cyprus, Finland, Latvia, and Poland, basketball fans worldwide are witnessing a pivotal moment for one of the game’s greatest talents: Giannis Antetokounmpo. The “Greek Freak,” a two-time NBA MVP and champion with the Milwaukee Bucks, has long dominated the league but has yet to secure a major medal on the international stage with his home country. Greece’s last EuroBasket podium finish was a bronze in 2009, and while Giannis has led them to respectable showings—like a quarterfinal exit in 2022—the stars have never quite aligned for a breakthrough.

    Fast forward to September 2025, and the landscape looks dramatically different. With the tournament already underway (as of September 1, Greece sits undefeated after strong wins over Cyprus and Georgia, including a 27-point outburst from Giannis against the latter), this could be the perfect storm for Greece to medal. Why? A combination of Giannis’ prime form, a solid supporting cast, and—crucially—weaknesses plaguing many of the traditional favorites. Several powerhouse teams are missing key stars due to injuries, fatigue from the 2024 Olympics and NBA seasons, or strategic rest ahead of the 2025-26 NBA campaign. This has opened up the field, making a medal not just possible but potentially “easy” for a Giannis-led Greece if they capitalize. They come first in their (let’s face it, very easy) first phase, then meet Israel and Latvia and presto! Quarterfinals. It is very doable and very likely.

    Drawing from FIBA’s Smart Power Rankings and betting insights, Serbia tops the list, followed by Germany, France, and others like Lithuania, Slovenia, Turkey, Latvia, and Italy. Greece ranks fourth in those rankings, but with the absences hitting rivals hard, their path to the podium (top three) looks clearer than ever.

    Serbia: The Undisputed Favorites, But Not Invincible

    Serbia enters EuroBasket 2025 as the clear top dog, boasting odds of around +235 to win it all and holding the No. 1 spot in FIBA’s power rankings. Led by three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets, who is participating and already making waves, they have a stacked roster including Bogdan Bogdanović (Atlanta Hawks) and Nikola Milutinov. Their depth and chemistry make them a force—Jokić’s playmaking and scoring (he’s among the top players to watch) could carry them far.

    But even Serbia isn’t without cracks this time. Jokić, fresh off a grueling NBA season and the 2024 Olympics (where Serbia earned silver), might face fatigue as the tournament progresses into its knockout stages ending September 14. Their overreliance on Jokić could be exploited if opponents like Greece force him into foul trouble or double-teams—something Giannis, with his defensive versatility, is uniquely equipped to handle. Historically, Serbia has dominated (runners-up in 2017), but in a field where other teams are depleted, any slip-up (e.g., injuries to supporting players like Vasilije Micić) could open the door. For Greece, avoiding Serbia until the finals might be key, but this isn’t the unbeatable juggernaut of past cycles.

    As Serbia’s captain and all-time leading scorer, Bogdanović brings irreplaceable experience and clutch performance to the squad. His elite three-point shooting (often around 40-50% in international play), playmaking, and ability to create off the dribble complement Jokić’s interior dominance, forming a dynamic inside-out threat that opponents struggle to contain. Without him, Serbia’s offense becomes more predictable, relying heavily on Jokić, which could lead to fatigue for the superstar center or force less experienced players like Vasilije Micić or Ognjen Jaramaz into expanded roles they’re not fully prepared for. Defensively, his length and instincts help guard multiple positions, a loss that’s particularly felt against versatile wings from teams like Germany or Greece. Despite Nikola Jokić’s NBA dominance, the Basketball Federation of Serbia selected Bogdanović as the top player for the year, recognising his consistent international impact over Jokić’s occasional absences. His injury changes everything.

    Germany: World Champs With Lingering Questions

    As the reigning FIBA World Cup champions from 2023, Germany sits at No. 2 in the power rankings with odds around +650. Their core remains intact: Dennis Schröder (Brooklyn Nets), Franz Wagner (Orlando Magic), Moritz Wagner (Orlando Magic), and Daniel Theis (New Orleans Pelicans) are all suiting up, providing NBA-caliber talent across positions. Franz Wagner, in particular, ranks among the top NBA players at the tournament.

    Yet, Germany is weaker than their 2023 squad due to the absence of some depth pieces and the toll of recent international play. The Wagner brothers and Schröder played heavy minutes in the 2024 Olympics (Germany exited in the quarters), and fatigue could set in during a condensed EuroBasket schedule. Moreover, their frontcourt lacks the dominant size to consistently counter superstars like Giannis or Jokić— Theis is solid but not elite. Pre-tournament predictions note Germany as a contender, but not the favorite, with some analysts questioning their ability to repeat without fresh legs. For Greece, this means a winnable matchup if they meet in the knockouts; Giannis’ athleticism could overwhelm Germany’s perimeter-oriented style.

    France: A Powerhouse Gutted by Absences

    France, bronze medalists at the 2024 Olympics and No. 3 in power rankings with +900 odds, would normally be a medal lock. But this edition is arguably their weakest in years, thanks to a slew of high-profile skips. Star center Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs) is out due to health concerns (a blood clot issue), Rudy Gobert (Minnesota Timberwolves) is resting after a long season and Olympics, Mathias Lessort is absent, and Evan Fournier is also missing. Even Vincent Poirier, another key big, is sidelined.

    This leaves France’s frontcourt painfully thin—relying on players like Guerschon Yabusele and Nicolas Batum, who are talented but lack the rim protection and rebounding Gobert provides. Their perimeter game (with Isaïa Cordinier and others) is decent, but without their twin towers, they struggle against physical teams like Greece. Analysts have downgraded France significantly, with some predicting they might not even medal. For Giannis, this is a dream scenario: France’s weakened interior plays right into his slashing, dunking style, making a potential matchup a golden opportunity for Greece to advance.

    Lithuania: Missing Their Anchor in the Paint

    Lithuania, a perennial EuroBasket contender (No. 5 in rankings), thrives on tough, team-oriented play. They have Jonas Valančiūnas (Washington Wizards) anchoring the center spot, but the glaring absence is Domantas Sabonis (Sacramento Kings), who is skipping the tournament—likely due to rest after the Olympics and NBA commitments. Sabonis’ playmaking and scoring from the post were crucial in past runs (like their 2023 World Cup semis), and without him, Lithuania’s offense lacks fluidity.

    Their guard play (Rokas Jokubaitis, etc.) is solid, but the team is vulnerable to elite bigs like Giannis, who could dominate the boards and paint. Previews highlight Lithuania as a dark horse, but the Sabonis void drops them from true favorite status. Greece, with Giannis’ brothers Thanasis and Kostas providing depth, has the physicality to exploit this—making Lithuania a beatable foe en route to a medal.

    Slovenia: Doncic’s One-Man Show Amid Fatigue Concerns

    Slovenia, powered by Luka Dončić (Dallas Mavericks), always punches above their weight—Dončić is No. 3 among top NBA players here. But with odds around +1200 or lower, they’re not top-tier favorites. Dončić, who slimmed down for the tournament, is fresh off a deep NBA Finals run and Olympics, raising fatigue risks—he’s already logged a historic triple-double early on.

    The supporting cast (Vlatko Čančar, Mike Tobey) is serviceable but thin—Slovenia often relies on Dončić heroics, which can falter against balanced teams. If Greece draws them, Giannis’ defense could neutralize Luka, exposing Slovenia’s lack of depth. This vulnerability makes them less threatening than in 2017, when they won gold.

    Other Contenders: Turkey, Latvia, Italy, and Spain’s Diminished Threats

    • Turkey (No. 6): Led by Alperen Şengün (Houston Rockets), they’re rising but young and inconsistent. No major absences, but their inexperience could show in knockouts—Greece’s veteran presence (Thomas Walkup, Kostas Sloukas) gives them an edge.
    • Latvia (No. 7): Kristaps Porziņģis (Atlanta Hawks? Wait, Boston Celtics) is a star, but Latvia’s overall roster lacks NBA depth. As a dark horse, they’re beatable if Porziņģis is contained.
    • Italy (No. 8): Simone Fontecchio (Miami Heat) and Danilo Gallinari lead, but Donte DiVincenzo’s skip hurts their guard play. Inconsistent historically, they’re not a major roadblock. Case in point , Fontecchio was terrible against Greece and they lost.
    • Spain: Once dominant, they’re in transition post-golden generation. With only Santi Aldama (Memphis Grizzlies) as a notable NBAer, they’re outside the top 8 and vulnerable.

    Why This Equals Greece’s Perfect Opportunity

    Greece’s roster, finalized with Giannis at the helm alongside his brothers, Walkup, and Sloukas, is built for success. In an easy Group C (with Cyprus, Georgia, Bosnia), they’ve already cruised to wins, preserving energy. The absences across Europe—over 9 noteworthy NBA players skipping, including Wembanyama and Gobert—have leveled the playing field like never before. While Serbia and Germany remain tough, the diluted competition means Greece can realistically aim for silver or bronze by navigating a softer bracket.

    For Giannis this is the moment. Post-2024 Olympics fatigue has sidelined rivals, but he’s committed and dominant. If Greece medals, it’ll be a testament to seizing this wide-open window. Basketball purists, keep watching—history might be in the making. Not because Giannis has improved but because this year Greece has the easiest path to a medal.

  • Giannis’ dunk, misinformation. No he was not the best

    Giannis’ dunk, misinformation. No he was not the best

    LeBron James scored 100% of his dunks last season. As he did the previous season. That shows something about his IQ on the court and his selection of moves. It shows he has bag and can turn to other ways of scoring or passing.

    Giannis? Sure he made the most dunk attempts in the NBA again. But as usual he hovers at 95%. Is that good? Well, some call it elite. I call it catastrophic.

    SeasonDunk AttemptsDunks MadeDunks MissedDunk %
    2022–232352231294.9%

    It also shows zero progress. Because Giannis is not adding to his tools, he is just doing the same thing again and again. And it’s working less and less. Sure he gets away with it in regular season games. Or when the opponents defence makes a mistake. But it is killing his team’s ball flow. His selfish attempts for stat padding show lack of bag and lack of understanding. The Bucks can’t develop like this.

    PlayerDunk AttemptsDunks MadeDunk %
    Giannis26425195.1%

    What is even more silly is when they post about “hang time” and refer to TOTAL hang time during dunks. Since Giannis made the most dunk attempts it makes sense that in TOTAL he was in the air more than others. But when you divide the total air time by the number of dunks he is actually at the bottom of the “hangtime” rankings, ie he is in the air less. Unspectacular. This is a player that has been in the NBA for more than a decade surrounded by players that were brought on the team to help him score and he still does stuff like this.

  • Giannis has no skills and his LeBron tweet was ridiculous

    Giannis has no skills and his LeBron tweet was ridiculous

    When discussing the NBA’s elite, Giannis Antetokounmpo and LeBron James frequently top the conversation. Both are popular players, with Giannis dominating a two-time MVP and LeBron reigning as one of the greatest players ever. However, a common critique of Giannis is that his “bag” — the range of skills and versatility in his game — pales in comparison to LeBron’s. Giannis’ recent tweet indirectly aimed to put them on a similar level but it’s not even close.

    Scoring: Power vs. Precision

    Giannis Antetokounmpo

    Giannis, known as the “Greek Freak,” relies heavily on his physical gifts. Standing at 6’11” with a 7’3″ wingspan, he’s a force in the paint. His scoring is built on:

    • Rim Attacks: Giannis is arguably the best in the league at driving to the basket. His long strides and explosive athleticism make him nearly unstoppable in transition or when he gets a head of steam in the half-court.
    • Post Play: He uses his size to back down defenders, often finishing with dunks or layups.
    • Mid-Range and Three-Point Shooting: This is where Giannis’s limitations show. His jump shot remains inconsistent. In the 2024-25 season, he’s shooting around 29% from three on low volume (1-2 attempts per game) and rarely takes mid-range shots, preferring to attack the rim. His free-throw shooting, while improved, hovers around 65-70%, which can be exploited in clutch moments.

    Giannis’s scoring is devastatingly effective but one-dimensional. Defenses often sag off him, daring him to shoot, which limits his offensive repertoire compared to players with more refined jumpers.

    LeBron James

    LeBron, at 6’9″ and 250 pounds, combines physicality with finesse. His scoring arsenal is far more diverse:

    • Driving and Finishing: Like Giannis, LeBron is a freight train in transition and can finish through contact at the rim. However, he’s also adept at using spin moves and Eurosteps to create space.
    • Mid-Range Game: LeBron has a reliable pull-up jumper and fadeaway, especially in clutch situations. His mid-range shooting, while not as prolific as Kevin Durant’s, is a consistent weapon.
    • Three-Point Shooting: LeBron’s three-point shooting has varied over his career, but in recent seasons (2024-25), he’s shooting around 36-38% on 4-5 attempts per game. This forces defenses to respect his range, opening up driving lanes.
    • Post Play: LeBron’s post game is polished, with an array of turnarounds, hooks, and fadeaways, making him a matchup nightmare.

    LeBron’s ability to score from all three levels — inside, mid-range, and beyond the arc — gives him a significant edge. Defenders can’t predict his approach, as he can adapt to any defensive scheme.

    Verdict: Giannis’s scoring is elite but heavily reliant on his athleticism and paint dominance. LeBron’s multifaceted scoring makes him a more complete offensive threat.

    Playmaking: Vision and Execution

    Giannis Antetokounmpo

    Giannis has grown into a solid playmaker, averaging around 6-7 assists per game in recent seasons. His passing is effective in specific contexts:

    • Drive-and-Kick: Giannis often draws multiple defenders on drives, allowing him to kick out to open shooters.
    • Transition: His ability to grab a defensive rebound and lead the fast break is unparalleled, often finding teammates for easy buckets.
    • Limitations: Giannis’s playmaking is somewhat predictable. He’s not a point-forward who can run complex pick-and-rolls or dissect defenses with precision passing. His assist numbers are high partly because of Milwaukee’s system, which surrounds him with shooters, but he lacks the nuanced vision of elite playmakers.

    LeBron James

    LeBron is one of the best passers in NBA history, often compared to Magic Johnson. His playmaking is a cornerstone of his game:

    • Court Vision: LeBron’s ability to read defenses is uncanny. He can make cross-court skip passes, no-look passes, or thread the needle in traffic.
    • Pick-and-Roll Mastery: LeBron manipulates defenses in pick-and-roll situations, creating opportunities for both rollers and shooters.
    • Versatility: He can run point guard full-time, orchestrate from the post, or facilitate in transition. In 2024-25, he’s averaging 8-9 assists per game, often leading his team in this category despite being 40 years old.

    LeBron’s playmaking elevates his teammates, turning average players into threats. His basketball IQ allows him to exploit mismatches and create high-percentage shots.

    Verdict: Giannis is a good passer, but LeBron’s elite vision and versatility make him a far superior playmaker.

    Defense: Impact and Adaptability

    Giannis Antetokounmpo

    Giannis is a defensive juggernaut, having won the 2020 Defensive Player of the Year award. His defensive strengths include:

    • Rim Protection: His length and timing make him an elite shot-blocker, averaging 1.5-2 blocks per game.
    • Versatility: Giannis can guard positions 1-5, switching onto guards or anchoring the paint against centers.
    • Help Defense: His ability to roam off weaker shooters and disrupt plays is a game-changer, often leading to steals (around 1.2 per game).

    However, Giannis can sometimes overcommit to blocks, leaving him out of position, and his perimeter defense, while solid, isn’t as lockdown as smaller, quicker defenders.

    LeBron James

    LeBron’s defensive prime was earlier in his career (2008-2016), but even in 2025, he remains a plus defender:

    • Versatility: LeBron can still guard multiple positions, though he’s less likely to take on elite perimeter players full-time at this stage.
    • IQ and Help Defense: His basketball IQ shines on defense, as he anticipates plays, rotates effectively, and communicates to organize his team.
    • Effort Management: LeBron often conserves energy on defense during the regular season, focusing on key possessions or playoff matchups.

    While LeBron’s defensive impact has waned slightly with age, his ability to switch, protect the rim, and make smart rotations keeps him effective.

    Verdict: Giannis has the edge defensively due to his peak rim protection and versatility, but LeBron’s defensive IQ and adaptability remain elite.

    Overall Versatility: The “Bag” Comparison

    The term “bag” refers to a player’s range of skills and ability to adapt to different situations. Giannis’s bag is deep in specific areas:

    • Unstoppable in transition and paint scoring. Well, he used to be unstoppable.
    • Elite defensive impact. Well, until he won DPOY and then forgot defence.
    • Improving but limited playmaking. Unless it is a game that matters.

    However, his lack of a reliable jump shot and limited playmaking creativity restrict his versatility. Defences can game-plan against him by clogging the paint and daring him to shoot, as seen in playoff series like the 2019 Raptors or 2021 Heat matchups.

    LeBron’s bag, by contrast, is one of the deepest in NBA history:

    • Scores efficiently from all three levels.
    • Elite playmaking that elevates any team.
    • High-level defense, even if not at its peak.
    • Ability to play and guard multiple positions, run point, or dominate in the post.

    LeBron’s versatility allows him to thrive in any system, against any defense, and in any era. He’s a chameleon, adapting to whatever his team needs — whether it’s scoring 40, dishing 15 assists, or locking down an opponent in crunch time.

    Contextual Factors: Age and Era

    It’s worth noting that Giannis (30 years old in 2025) is in his prime, while LeBron (40) is in the twilight of his career. Despite this, LeBron’s skill set remains more polished. Giannis theoretically has time to develop his jumper or playmaking, but his game has shown only incremental growth in these areas over the past few seasons. And most importantly LeBron rises to playoff pressure whereas Giannis has failed almost every year of his career with that one notable exception.

    The modern NBA, with its emphasis on spacing and shooting, also highlights Giannis’s limitations. LeBron’s ability to shoot and create off the dribble aligns better with today’s game, while Giannis’s paint-centric style requires specific roster construction (e.g., shooters like Middleton and Lopez) to maximize his impact. Most importantly, LeBron has done this at the highest level with three different teams. Giannis is on a roster always tailored around him which to a large degree hides his many, many weaknesses.

    So no Giannis, you won’t get away with this

    Giannis Antetokounmpo’s physical dominance during the regular season make him a perennial MVP candidate. However, when comparing his “bag” to LeBron James’s, the gap is clear. LeBron’s ability to score from anywhere, make every type of pass, and adapt to any role gives him a level of versatility that Giannis has yet to match. While Giannis’s raw power and athleticism are impressive in easy games, his lack of a consistent outside shot and limited playmaking creativity mean his game is less complete. And most importantly his game has not developed and doesn’t deliver when it counts. While LeBron posts career breaking improvements in efficiency at 40, Giannis hits career lows in ft% and 3pt% as well a serious deterioration of his defensive effort.

    LeBron’s all-around mastery, even at 40, sets a standard that few, including Giannis, can rival. As Giannis continues to refine his game, he may close the gap, but for now, LeBron’s bag remains the deeper and more versatile of the two. And it’s not even close.

  • The Ringer’s Top 100 NBA Player Rankings got a lot wrong

    The Ringer’s Top 100 NBA Player Rankings got a lot wrong

    The Ringer’s Top 100 NBA Player Rankings, hosted at nbarankings.theringer.com, aim to provide a dynamic, year-round evaluation of the NBA players making the most significant impact in the league. Updated regularly to reflect current performance, the rankings are a valuable resource for fans and analysts alike. However, the 2025 iteration of these rankings has sparked debate, particularly regarding the placement of Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. While Giannis is undeniably a phenomenal physical talent, his high ranking—near the very top—raises questions about the methodology and criteria used, especially when his playoff impact is scrutinised.

    1. Overemphasis on Regular-Season Performance

    The Ringer’s rankings claim to reflect players “making the biggest impact on the league right now” (). However, the methodology appears to heavily favor regular-season statistics and accolades over playoff performance, which is arguably the true measure of a player’s impact in high-stakes scenarios. This is particularly evident in Giannis Antetokounmpo’s case. Giannis consistently posts gaudy regular-season numbers—averaging 30.4 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 6.5 assists in the 2022-23 season, for example, while leading the Bucks to the best record in the NBA. His ability to dominate with sheer athleticism and force makes him a regular-season juggernaut, but the rankings fail to adequately weigh his postseason shortcomings.

    In the 2025 playoffs, Giannis averaged an impressive 36 points in Game 1 against the Indiana Pacers, but his impact was limited by Milwaukee’s blowout loss and the team’s overall lack of cohesion (). The Bucks have not won a playoff game in which Giannis has played since Game 5 of the 2022 playoffs, going 0-5 in such games (). This pattern of playoff under performance—whether due to injuries, coaching mismatches, or roster limitations—suggests that Giannis’s ranking should reflect these struggles more heavily. The Ringer’s list, by prioritising regular-season dominance, risks inflating the value of players like Giannis who excel in less consequential games but falter when the stakes are highest.

    2. Giannis’s Playoff Limitations: A Case for a Lower Ranking

    Giannis Antetokounmpo’s playoff resume is a mixed bag, and The Ringer’s high ranking of him—often in the top 5, alongside players like Nikola Jokić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander—overlooks critical weaknesses. While Giannis led the Bucks to a championship in 2021 with a historic 50-point performance in Game 6 of the Finals, his postseason success since then has been inconsistent. The Bucks have faced early-round exits in each of the last four postseasons (2022-2025), with injuries, poor roster construction, and tactical limitations playing significant roles.

    a. Injury Concerns and Availability

    Giannis has struggled with durability in recent playoffs. Since the 2021 championship, injuries to either himself or key teammates like Khris Middleton and Damian Lillard have derailed Milwaukee’s postseason aspirations (). In 2023, Giannis played in the Heat series but was hampered, and his team lost despite a 40-point, 20-rebound game (). In 2024, he missed significant playoff time, and in 2025, the Bucks’ Game 1 loss to the Pacers highlighted a lack of team support around him (). While injuries are not entirely within a player’s control, consistent absence or diminished performance in critical playoff moments should weigh heavily in rankings that claim to assess current impact.

    b. Tactical Limitations

    Giannis’s game, while dominant, has exploitable flaws in playoff settings. His lack of a reliable three-point shot (22.2% in 2024-25) and career-low 61.7% free-throw shooting make him vulnerable to defensive schemes that clog the paint and dare him to shoot (). Teams like the Miami Heat in 2023 and the Pacers in 2025 have capitalised on this, using physical defenders and zone schemes to neutralise his drives. The Ringer’s rankings do not seem to account for how these limitations reduce Giannis’ effectiveness in high-stakes games, where opponents can game-plan specifically to exploit his weaknesses.

    c. Supporting Cast and Coaching Mismatches

    The Ringer’s individual player rankings should consider how much of Giannis’ impact is diminished by his lack of ability to adapt to his playing environment. His high ranking feels like an endorsement of his individual stats rather than a holistic evaluation of his ability to elevate his team in the postseason. Which he obviously cannot do. Shouldn’t that be the most important thing in a team game?

    d. Comparison to Peers

    When compared to other top-tier players like Jokić, who led Denver to a championship in 2023 with a historically efficient offensive season (), or Gilgeous-Alexander, who has guided OKC to a dominant 2024-25 season (), Giannis’s playoff resume pales. Jokić’s versatility as a passer, shooter, and clutch performer makes him a more reliable playoff force, while Gilgeous-Alexander’s low turnover rate and ability to elevate teammates in big moments set him apart (). The Ringer’s failure to adjust Giannis’s ranking downward relative to these players suggests a bias toward his regular-season dominance and name recognition.

    3. Lack of Transparency in Ranking Methodology

    Another significant flaw in The Ringer’s rankings is the lack of clarity around how players are evaluated. The site describes the list as reflecting “the biggest impact on the league right now” but does not provide specific criteria, such as statistical weights, playoff performance, or qualitative factors like leadership or clutch play (). This opacity makes it difficult to understand why Giannis is ranked so highly despite his postseason struggles. For comparison, ESPN’s NBArank, which uses a panel of experts voting on player matchups, provides a clearer framework, even if it’s not perfect (). The Ringer’s rankings would benefit from a detailed explanation of how regular-season stats, playoff performance, and intangibles are balanced.

    4. Overvaluing Star Power and Narrative

    The Ringer’s rankings seem to lean heavily on star power and narrative, which may explain Giannis’s lofty placement. His transformation from a “gangly teenager to a modern-day Shaq” and his inspirational 2021 Finals run have cemented his status as a fan and media favorite (). However, this narrative-driven approach can overshadow objective analysis. Posts on X highlight skepticism about Giannis’s top-5 status, with users pointing out his poor shooting percentages (45/25% in some playoff series) and lack of playoff wins since 2022 (,). The Ringer’s rankings risk prioritizing Giannis’s brand and past achievements over his current playoff impact, which is inconsistent with the claim of evaluating “right now.”

    5. Broader Issues with the Rankings

    Beyond Giannis, The Ringer’s list has other issues that undermine its credibility:

    • Inconsistent Updates: While the rankings are described as “year-round, around-the-clock,” updates seem sporadic, with some entries dated months apart (e.g., February 27, 2025, and April 15, 2025) (,). This raises questions about whether the rankings truly reflect current performance.
    • Overranking Aging Stars: Players like Kevin Durant and LeBron James, ranked highly despite injury concerns and diminished playoff success, suggest a reliance on reputation rather than current output ().
    • Underrating Emerging Talent: Young players like Anthony Edwards and Victor Wembanyama, who are projected to dominate in the future, may be ranked lower than their current impact warrants due to a bias toward established names ().

    Conclusion: Reassessing Giannis and The Ringer’s Approach

    Giannis Antetokounmpo is a generational talent, but his high ranking in The Ringer’s Top 100 NBA Player Rankings is questionable given his recent playoff struggles. His injury history, tactical limitations, and reliance on a sub optimal supporting cast and coaching staff have hindered his postseason impact, yet the rankings do not seem to reflect these realities. Broader issues, such as the lack of transparent methodology, overemphasis on regular-season stats, and narrative-driven evaluations, further undermine the list’s credibility. To improve, The Ringer should clarify its criteria, give greater weight to playoff performance, and ensure rankings reflect current impact rather than past achievements or star power. Until then, Giannis’ placement near the top feels more like a nod to his regular-season dominance and fan appeal than a true measure of his league-wide impact.

  • No, Giannis is NOT the top NBA scorer since 2015

    No, Giannis is NOT the top NBA scorer since 2015

    Since the 2014-15 season, the NBA players with the best average points per game (PPG), with a minimum of 41 games played per 82 team games, are:

    1. Luka Dončić: 28.6 PPG (450 games)
    2. Joel Embiid: 27.7 PPG (452 games)
    3. Kevin Durant: 27.1 PPG (581 games)
    4. James Harden: 26.9 PPG (780 games)
    5. Stephen Curry: 26.9 PPG (690 games)
    6. LeBron James: 26.4 PPG (720 games)
    7. Damian Lillard: 26.3 PPG (736 games)

    If we include the playoffs (as we should) it looks like this:

    Luka Dončić: 28.9 PPG (505 games) Kevin Durant: 27.4 PPG (678 games) Joel Embiid: 27.4 PPG (511

    games) Stephen Curry: 27.0 PPG (826 games) LeBron James: 26.8 PPG (854 games) James Harden: 26.7 PPG (898 games) Damian Lillard: 26.2 PPG (793 games)

    Cherry picking statistics to try and make Giannis look good is a full time thing for some people on social media. “Most 30pt games” means nothing when, like this season, Giannis didn’t win a single game that mattered against top teams in the East. He simply does stat padding against easier opponents.

    A notable example is the 2023-24 season game against the Washington Wizards, where he scored 35 points and grabbed 15 rebounds but was accused of stat-padding in a blowout loss (117-94). Social media posts highlighted moments like Giannis taking unnecessary shots or pushing for rebounds late in decided games, suggesting he was chasing triple-doubles or scoring titles to bolster his MVP candidacy. This perception intensified after he reportedly lobbied to return to a game to secure a triple-double, as mentioned in a 2023 Athletic article.

    • Disrupts Team Chemistry: Chasing stats can lead to forced plays, reducing ball movement and sidelining teammates like Damian Lillard or Khris Middleton, who are critical to Milwaukee’s offense.
    • Undermines Strategy: In clutch moments, Giannis’ insistence on dominating the ball (e.g., taking contested shots or driving into crowded defenses) can override better play-calling, especially in playoffs where his 31.6% three-point shooting and 58.9% free-throw shooting (career playoff averages) are exploitable.
    • Sets a Poor Example: As a leader, prioritising personal stats over winning could demotivate role players or signal a lack of trust in the system, particularly under coaches like Doc Rivers, who emphasise structured play.

    Data from the 2024-25 season shows Giannis averaging 31.0 PPG, 12.1 RPG, and 5.9 APG on 60.7% FG, elite numbers that led to his ninth straight All-NBA nod. However, Milwaukee’s 48-34 record and first-round playoff exit against Indiana fueled criticism that his stat-heavy approach didn’t translate to postseason success. His usage rate (35.8%, second in the NBA) suggests he dominates possessions, potentially limiting Lillard’s playmaking (24.3 PPG, down from 32.2 the prior season).

    Where things really count are the NBA playoffs. Since the 2014-15 season, the NBA players with the highest average points per game (PPG) in the playoffs, with a minimum of 41 games played per 82 team games, are:

    Luka Dončić: 30.9 PPG (55 games)

    Kevin Durant: 29.6 PPG (97 games)

    LeBron James: 28.9 PPG (134 games)

    Donovan Mitchell: 28.3 PPG (63 games)

    Devin Booker: 28.0 PPG (47 games)

    Nikola Jokić: 27.5 PPG (93 games)

    Anthony Edwards: 27.4 PPG (37 games)

    Kawhi Leonard: 27.3 PPG (88 games)

    Stephen Curry: 27.2 PPG (136 games)

    Sure, this is summer and the traditional “will Giannis be traded” BS wars have begun. But maybe let’s check our stats before floating them out there?

  • Have many other players failed as badly as Giannis in the playoffs?

    Have many other players failed as badly as Giannis in the playoffs?

    To evaluate whether any well-known NBA players have failed more consistently than Giannis Antetokounmpo in the playoffs, we need to consider his playoff record, define what constitutes “failure,” and compare it to other prominent players with similar or worse postseason outcomes over a comparable career span. The query highlights Giannis’ decade-plus career and his limited success beyond the first round, so we’ll focus on players with significant reputations who have struggled to advance in the playoffs, particularly in the first round, while accounting for context like injuries, team quality, and expectations.

    Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Playoff Record

    Giannis, a two-time MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and 2021 NBA Champion, has played 12 seasons (2013–2025) and appeared in 9 playoffs, participating in 16 playoff series across 84 games. His postseason record includes:

    • 1 NBA Championship (2021, defeating the Phoenix Suns).
    • 1 Eastern Conference Finals appearance (2019, lost to the Toronto Raptors).
    • 2 second-round appearances (2020, lost to the Miami Heat; 2022, lost to the Boston Celtics).
    • 6 first-round exits (2015, 2017, 2018, 2023, 2024, 2025).
    • 2 seasons missing the playoffs (2014, 2016).

    His six first-round exits, including three consecutive from 2023 to 2025, and only one championship in 12 seasons have fuelled perceptions of postseason underachievement, especially given his individual accolades.

    “Failure” in this context likely refers to early playoff exits (first-round losses or failing to reach deep playoff rounds) relative to expectations for a player of Giannis’ calibre. Factors like injuries (e.g., his 2023 back injury and 2024 calf strain, which sidelined him entirely), co-star injuries (e.g., Khris Middleton in 2022, Damian Lillard in 2025), and team construction challenges (e.g., limited roster depth post-2021) have contributed to these outcomes.

    Criteria for Comparison

    To identify players who may have “failed more consistently,” we’ll look at:

    • Well-known players: Those with MVP awards, All-NBA selections, All-Star appearances, or significant cultural impact.
    • Playoff consistency: Players with frequent first-round exits, limited deep playoff runs (e.g., never reaching a Conference Finals), or no championships despite long careers.
    • Career span: Players with at least 10 seasons to match Giannis’ “more than a decade.”
    • Context: Team quality, injuries, and era-specific challenges (e.g., facing dynasties like the Warriors or LeBron-led teams).

    We’ll compare Giannis to players whose postseason resumes show similar or worse patterns of early exits or unmet expectations, focusing on the last few decades for relevance.

    Players with Comparable or Worse Playoff Struggles

    Here are several well-known NBA players who have arguably faced more consistent playoff disappointment than Giannis, based on frequent early exits, lack of deep runs, or no championships despite stellar individual careers:

    1. James Harden (2009–present, 16 seasons)

    • Accolades: 2018 MVP, 10x All-Star, 7x All-NBA, 3x scoring champion.
    • Playoff Record:
    • 19 playoff series across 14 appearances (2009–2024).
    • 1 NBA Finals appearance (2012 with OKC, lost to Miami).
    • 3 Conference Finals appearances (2015, 2018 with Houston; 2021 with Brooklyn).
    • 8 first-round exits (2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2023, 2024).
    • 3 second-round exits (2017, 2019, 2020).
    • Career playoff averages: 22.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, 6.2 assists over 166 games.
    • Why More Consistent Failure?:
    • Harden has more first-round exits (8 vs. Giannis’ 6) over a longer career, despite playing with elite teammates like Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Chris Paul, and Kyrie Irving.
    • No championships and only one Finals appearance, which came early in his career as a sixth man.
    • Notorious for playoff underperformance, with true shooting percentage dropping significantly in postseason play (e.g., 5% decrease noted in some analyses). His 2018 and 2019 losses to the Warriors, despite leading 3-2 in 2018, and his inefficient 2023 playoff run with Philadelphia highlight recurring struggles.
    • Faced tough competition (e.g., Warriors dynasty), but criticism persists for failing to elevate in clutch moments, unlike Giannis’ 2021 Finals MVP performance.
    • Context: Harden’s teams often had high expectations, but injuries (e.g., Chris Paul in 2018) and matchup challenges hurt his chances. Still, his lack of a title and frequent early exits outweigh Giannis’ resume, which includes a championship.

    2. Carmelo Anthony (2003–2021, 19 seasons)

    • Accolades: 10x All-Star, 6x All-NBA, 2013 scoring champion.
    • Playoff Record:
    • 13 playoff series across 13 appearances (2004–2013, 2017, 2020, 2021).
    • 1 Conference Finals appearance (2009 with Denver, lost to the Lakers).
    • 10 first-round exits (2004–2008, 2010–2013, 2021).
    • 2 second-round exits (2017, 2020).
    • Career playoff averages: 24.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, 2.9 assists over 74 games.
    • Why More Consistent Failure?:
    • Carmelo has more first-round exits (10 vs. Giannis’ 6) and only one Conference Finals appearance in 19 seasons, compared to Giannis’ four series wins and a title in 12 seasons.
    • Never reached an NBA Finals and won only three playoff series total (2009 vs. Dallas, 2010 vs. Utah, 2017 vs. Charlotte).
    • Known for iso-heavy play that didn’t translate to postseason success, with teams like the Knicks and Nuggets often exiting early despite his scoring prowess.
    • Context: Carmelo often played on flawed rosters, especially in New York, and faced strong Western Conference teams (e.g., Spurs, Lakers). However, his inability to lead teams deep into the playoffs, even in his prime, marks a more consistent pattern of postseason disappointment than Giannis, who has a championship and multiple deep runs.

    3. Chris Paul (2005–present, 20 seasons)

    • Accolades: 12x All-Star, 11x All-NBA, 9x All-Defensive, 5x assists leader.
    • Playoff Record:
    • 24 playoff series across 15 appearances (2006–2023).
    • 1 NBA Finals appearance (2021 with Phoenix, lost to Milwaukee).
    • 3 Conference Finals appearances (2018 with Houston, 2021 with Phoenix, 2015 with the Clippers).
    • 8 first-round exits (2006, 2007, 2009, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2017, 2023).
    • 5 second-round exits (2008, 2010, 2011, 2016, 2022).
    • Career playoff averages: 19.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, 8.2 assists over 149 games.
    • Why More Consistent Failure?:
    • Matches Harden with 8 first-round exits and has more seasons (20 vs. Giannis’ 12) without a championship.
    • Only one Finals appearance late in his career (2021, losing to Giannis’ Bucks), with no titles despite playing alongside stars like Blake Griffin, James Harden, and Devin Booker.
    • Known for clutch regular-season play but has faced criticism for playoff injuries (e.g., hamstring in 2018 vs. Warriors) and late-game miscues, contributing to a narrative of postseason underachievement.
    • Context: Paul often elevated mediocre teams (e.g., Hornets, Clippers) but ran into juggernauts like the Spurs, Lakers, and Warriors. Injuries and bad luck played a role, but his lack of a title and frequent early exits rival or exceed Giannis’ struggles.

    4. Russell Westbrook (2008–present, 17 seasons)

    • Accolades: 2017 MVP, 9x All-Star, 9x All-NBA, 2x scoring champion, 3x assists leader.
    • Playoff Record:
    • 22 playoff series across 13 appearances (2009–2020, 2023).
    • 1 NBA Finals appearance (2012 with OKC, lost to Miami).
    • 3 Conference Finals appearances (2011, 2014, 2016 with OKC).
    • 8 first-round exits (2009, 2010, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020).
    • 2 second-round exits (2020, 2023).
    • Career playoff averages: 24.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, 7.9 assists over 122 games.
    • Why More Consistent Failure?:
    • Like Harden and Paul, Westbrook has 8 first-round exits, more than Giannis’ 6, and no championships despite a longer career.
    • Only one Finals appearance (2012, as a young player with Durant and Harden), with most playoff runs ending early, especially post-2016 when leading Houston and Washington.
    • Criticized for inefficient shooting (e.g., 41.7% career playoff FG% vs. Giannis’ 51.2%) and poor decision-making in high-stakes games, leading to consistent early exits in his prime.
    • Context: Westbrook faced tough Western Conference competition and played without Durant after 2016, but his style often hindered team success in the playoffs, making his postseason resume less impressive than Giannis’, who has a title and better efficiency.

    5. Tracy McGrady (1997–2013, 16 seasons)

    • Accolades: 7x All-Star, 7x All-NBA, 2x scoring champion, 2001 Most Improved Player.
    • Playoff Record:
    • 9 playoff series across 9 appearances (1999–2005, 2007–2008, 2013).
    • 0 Conference Finals appearances.
    • 7 first-round exits (1999–2003, 2004–2005).
    • 2 second-round exits (2007–2008).
    • Career playoff averages: 25.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, 5.0 assists over 50 games.
    • Why More Consistent Failure?:
    • McGrady never advanced past the first round until 2007 (with Houston, as a secondary star), accumulating 7 first-round exits in his first 7 playoff appearances, worse than Giannis’ 6 in 9 playoffs.
    • No Conference Finals or Finals appearances, and no championships, despite being a top scorer in his prime.
    • His Orlando and Houston teams often underperformed, with McGrady’s 2003 Magic blowing a 3-1 lead to Detroit and his 2005 Rockets losing to Dallas after leading 2-0.
    • Context: McGrady dealt with injuries (e.g., back issues) and weak supporting casts in Orlando, but his inability to win a single series in his prime (1999–2005) marks a more consistent pattern of playoff failure than Giannis, who has a title and multiple series wins.

    6. Joel Embiid (2016–present, 9 seasons, but effectively ~7 due to early injuries)

    • Accolades: 2023 MVP, 7x All-Star, 5x All-NBA.
    • Playoff Record:
    • 11 playoff series across 7 appearances (2018–2024).
    • 0 Conference Finals appearances.
    • 4 first-round exits (2019, 2020, 2021, 2024).
    • 3 second-round exits (2018, 2022, 2023).
    • Career playoff averages: 24.6 points, 10.9 rebounds, 3.2 assists over 59 games.
    • Why Potentially More Consistent Failure?:
    • Embiid has fewer first-round exits (4 vs. Giannis’ 6), but zero Conference Finals appearances and no championships in a shorter career, compared to Giannis’ title and ECF run.
    • His playoff exits include high-profile collapses, like the 2019 loss to Toronto (Kawhi Leonard’s buzzer-beater) and the 2021 choke against Atlanta after leading 2-0. His 2024 first-round loss to the Knicks, despite averaging 33 points, raised questions about his clutch play.
    • Health issues (e.g., knee injuries, facial fractures) have limited his postseason impact, similar to Giannis’ injury woes, but Embiid’s lack of any deep runs is more glaring given Philadelphia’s strong rosters (e.g., with Harden, Butler, Simmons).
    • Context: Embiid’s career is shorter, so he may not yet surpass Giannis in “consistent failure,” but his inability to reach even a Conference Finals despite MVP-level play and talented teammates makes him a candidate. If his playoff struggles persist, he could overtake Giannis in this regard.

    Analysis and Comparison

    Giannis’ playoff record (1 championship, 1 ECF, 6 first-round exits in 9 playoffs) is underwhelming for a player of his stature, especially with three straight first-round losses from 2023 to 2025. Posts on X reflect this sentiment, noting his 1-8 record in playoff games over 32 minutes since 2022 and zero playoff wins from 2022 to 2025. However, his 2021 championship and Finals MVP, along with four series wins, set him apart from many peers who have no titles or fewer deep runs.

    • More Consistent Failures: Harden, Carmelo, Paul, Westbrook, and McGrady have worse postseason resumes due to more first-round exits (7–10 vs. Giannis’ 6), fewer or no championships, and fewer Conference Finals appearances. Carmelo and McGrady stand out for their near-total lack of playoff success, with McGrady never reaching a Conference Finals and Carmelo doing so only once. Harden and Westbrook, despite playing with multiple Hall of Famers, have only one Finals appearance each, both early in their careers.
    • Comparable but Less Severe: Embiid’s case is close, with no Conference Finals and four first-round exits, but his shorter career and fewer total exits (4 vs. 6) make his failures less extensive than Giannis’—though his lack of deep runs is arguably more disappointing given his team’s talent.

    Other Notable Mentions

    • Dominique Wilkins (1982–1999, 17 seasons): 8x All-Star, 7x All-NBA, 1x scoring champion. Reached one Conference Finals (1988) but had 7 first-round exits and no Finals appearances. His era included tough competition (Celtics, Pistons), but his playoff resume is thinner than Giannis’.
    • Vince Carter (1998–2020, 22 seasons): 8x All-Star, 2x All-NBA. Never reached a Conference Finals, with 6 first-round exits and only two second-round appearances. His longevity and lack of deep runs make him a candidate, but his lower peak (no MVP-level seasons) reduces his comparability to Giannis.
    • Allen Iverson (1996–2010, 14 seasons): 2001 MVP, 11x All-Star, 7x All-NBA. Reached one NBA Finals (2001, lost to Lakers) but had 5 first-round exits and only three series wins total. His iconic 2001 run overshadows a mostly disappointing playoff career, but Giannis’ title gives him an edge.

    So it’s looking bad for Giannis indeed

    Several well-known NBA players have failed more consistently in the playoffs than Giannis Antetokounmpo, primarily due to more first-round exits, fewer deep runs, and no championships over longer careers. James Harden, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, Russell Westbrook, and Tracy McGrady are the strongest examples, with 7–10 first-round exits each and minimal or no Finals appearances. Carmelo and McGrady are particularly notable for their near-complete lack of postseason success despite superstar status. Joel Embiid is a close case but falls short due to a shorter career, though his ongoing struggles could surpass Giannis’ if they continue.

    Giannis’ six first-round exits and three straight from 2023 to 2025 are disappointing, especially for a two-time MVP, but his 2021 championship, Finals MVP, and four series wins (including a Conference Finals appearance) distinguish him from these peers. Injuries and roster issues have played a significant role in his recent failures, as they have for others, but his playoff production (27.0 PPG, 12.2 RPG) and historic series performances mitigate the perception of “consistent failure” compared to players with less postseason hardware or impact. However Giannis ain’t done yet! He can fail at least 5-6 more times either with the Bucks or another team if he gets traded.

  • Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 2024-25 NBA Season: A Statistical Comparison to Previous Years. No accolades!

    Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 2024-25 NBA Season: A Statistical Comparison to Previous Years. No accolades!

    The 2024-25 regular season saw some statistical declines in specific areas compared to his previous seasons. All statistics are sourced from reputable platforms like Basketball-Reference, ESPN, and NBA.com.

    Overview of Giannis’ 2024-25 Regular Season

    In the 2024-25 regular season, Giannis Antetokounmpo appeared in 67 games for the Milwaukee Bucks.

    Statistical Declines in 2024-25 Compared to Previous Seasons

    1. Points Per Game (PPG)

    2024-25: 30.4 PPG
    Giannis’ scoring output in 2024-25 was impressive but lower than his career-high 31.1 PPG in the 2022-23 season. Comparing to recent seasons:

    2. Free-Throw Attempts and Percentage

    2024-25: 10.8 FTA, 65.8% FT%
    Giannis’ free-throw shooting has long been a point of contention, and 2024-25 saw a decline in both attempts and efficiency:

    • Free-Throw Attempts (FTA):
      • 2023-24: 11.2 FTA2022-23: 12.3 FTA (highest in his career)2021-22: 11.4 FTA2020-21: 10.2 FTA2019-20: 10.0 FTA
      In 2024-25, Giannis averaged 10.8 free-throw attempts per game, lower than the previous three seasons. The league has figured him out.
    • Free-Throw Percentage (FT%):
      • 2023-24: 65.7% (nearly identical to 2024-25)2022-23: 64.5% (1.3% lower)2021-22: 72.2% (6.4% higher)2020-21: 68.5% (2.7% higher)2019-20: 63.3% (2.5% lower)
      His 65.8% FT% in 2024-25 was among his worst since 2019-20, significantly below his 72.2% peak in 2021-22. This regression in free-throw accuracy impacted his overall scoring efficiency, especially in close games and is a massive liability in a lot of situations.

    3. Steals Per Game (SPG)

    2024-25: 0.9 SPG
    Giannis’ defensive impact used to be a hallmark of his game, but his steals average in 2024-25 was a notable low:

    • 2023-24: 1.2 SPG
    • 2022-23: 0.8 SPG (career low, tied with 2021-22)
    • 2021-22: 1.1 SPG
    • 2020-21: 1.2 SPG
    • 2019-20: 1.0 SPG

    The 0.9 SPG in 2024-25 was lower than four of the past five seasons, matching his 2019-20 output but falling short of his 2023-24 and 2020-21 figures. This dip may reflect a strategic shift, with Giannis focusing more on rim protection (1.2 BPG) or conserving energy on a Bucks roster dealing with injuries.

    4. Three-Point Shooting

    2024-25: 0.3 3PM, 25.9% 3P%
    Giannis has never been a prolific three-point shooter, but his 2024-25 numbers were particularly low:

    • Three-Point Makes (3PM):
      • 2023-24: 0.5 3PM
      • 2022-23: 0.7 3PM
      • 2021-22: 1.1 3PM
      • 2020-21: 1.1 3PM
      • 2019-20: 1.4 3PM
      His 0.3 three-pointers made per game in 2024-25 was the lowest since 2018-19 (0.2 3PM).
    • Three-Point Percentage (3P%):
      • 2023-24: 27.4%2022-23: 27.5%2021-22: 29.3%2020-21: 30.3%2019-20: 30.4%
      His 25.9% three-point shooting was the worst since 2017-18 (25.0%). This regression reflects a continued reluctance to shoot from beyond the arc, with only 1.1 three-point attempts per game in 2024-25. It is almost the worse 3pt shooting percentage in NBA history for a single season.

    5. Minutes Per Game (MPG)

    2024-25: 34.2 MPG
    Giannis played fewer minutes per game in 2024-25 than in most recent seasons:

    • 2023-24: 35.2 MPG
    • 2022-23: 34.2 MPG (tied with 2024-25)
    • 2021-22: 36.8 MPG
    • 2020-21: 33.0 MPG
    • 2019-20: 30.4 MPG

    The 34.2 MPG matches his 2022-23 figure but is lower than 2023-24 and 2021-22. This reduction could be due to load management, injuries to teammates like Lillard, or coaching decisions under Doc Rivers.

    Other stats

    1. Offensive Rebounds Per Game (ORPG) 2024-25: 2.7 ORPG

    Giannis’ offensive rebounding, a key component of his ability to generate second-chance points, saw a decline in 2024-25:

    2023-24: 2.9 ORPG 2022-23: 2.2 ORPG 2021-22: 2.0 ORPG 2020-21: 1.6 ORPG 2019-20: 2.1 ORPG His 2.7 offensive rebounds per game in 2024-25 were lower than his 2023-24 mark (2.9 ORPG) but higher than the four preceding seasons. The slight drop from 2023-24 could be due to a shift in role, with Giannis focusing more on playmaking (6.5 APG) or playing alongside other rebounders like Bobby Portis and Kyle Kuzma, reducing his opportunities on the offensive glass.

    2. Defensive Rebounds Per Game (DRPG) 2024-25: 9.2 DRPG

    Giannis’ defensive rebounding, which contributes to his league-leading total rebounds, also dipped slightly:

    2023-24: 9.6 DRPG 2022-23: 9.6 DRPG 2021-22: 9.9 DRPG 2020-21: 9.4 DRPG 2019-20: 11.4 DRPG His 9.2 defensive rebounds per game in 2024-25 were lower than every season since 2019-20. This decline may reflect increased competition for rebounds within the Bucks’ lineup or a strategic emphasis on transitioning quickly to offense rather than securing every defensive board.

    3. Assist-to-Turnover Ratio (AST/TOV) 2024-25: 1.91 AST/TOV (6.5 APG, 3.4 TOV)

    Giannis’ assist-to-turnover ratio in 2024-25 was worse than several prior seasons. He simply screws up more and more:

    2023-24: 1.92 (6.5 APG, 3.4 TOV) 2022-23: 1.44 (5.7 APG, 3.9 TOV) 2021-22: 1.75 (5.8 APG, 3.3 TOV) 2020-21: 2.07 (5.9 APG, 2.8 TOV) 2019-20: 1.61 (5.6 APG, 3.7 TOV) The 2024-25 AST/TOV ratio of 1.91 was slightly worse than 2023-24 (1.92) and significantly lower than 2020-21 (2.07). While Giannis maintained a high assist average (6.5 APG), his turnovers remained consistent at 3.4 per game, suggesting that his increased ball-handling responsibilities didn’t translate to better ball security compared to his peak efficiency in 2020-21.

    4. Player Efficiency Rating (PER) 2024-25: Estimated 28.0 PER

    Player Efficiency Rating (PER) measures a player’s per-minute productivity, normalised to a league average of 15.0. Giannis’ PER in 2024-25 was lower than several prior seasons:

    2023-24: 29.8 2022-23: 29.0 2021-22: 32.1 (career high) 2020-21: 29.2 2019-20: 31.9 His estimated 28.0 PER in 2024-25 (based on Basketball-Reference trends) was lower than four of the past five seasons, with only 2022-23 (29.0) being closer. This dip reflects slight regressions in scoring efficiency, turnovers, and defensive metrics like steals, though he remained among the league’s top performers.

    5. True Shooting Percentage (TS%) 2024-25: 59.8% TS%

    True Shooting Percentage accounts for field goals, three-pointers, and free throws to measure overall shooting efficiency. Giannis’ TS% in 2024-25 was:

    2023-24: 61.3% 2022-23: 60.5% 2021-22: 63.3% 2020-21: 61.7% 2019-20: 61.3% His 59.8% TS% in 2024-25 was the lowest since 2018-19 (59.7%) and worse than all five previous seasons. This decline is largely attributable to his poor free-throw shooting (65.8%) and reduced three-point accuracy (25.9%), which dragged down his overall efficiency despite a solid 55.7% FG%. Seeing as he mainly dunked this season, this drop is very worrying.

    6. Win Shares Per 48 Minutes (WS/48) 2024-25: Estimated 0.220 WS/48

    Win Shares Per 48 Minutes measures a player’s contribution to team wins, normalised per 48 minutes. Giannis’ WS/48 in 2024-25 was:

    2023-24: 0.233 2022-23: 0.208 2021-22: 0.281 2020-21: 0.260 2019-20: 0.279 His estimated 0.220 WS/48 in 2024-25 was lower than four of the past five seasons, surpassing only 2022-23. This drop reflects declines in offensive efficiency (e.g., TS%) and defensive contributions (e.g., steals).

    7. Box Plus/Minus (BPM) 2024-25: Estimated 8.5 BPM

    Box Plus/Minus estimates a player’s contribution to team performance per 100 possessions. Giannis’ BPM in 2024-25 was:

    2023-24: 8.8 2022-23: 8.6 2021-22: 11.8 2020-21: 9.2 2019-20: 11.1 His estimated 8.5 BPM in 2024-25 was lower than four of the past five seasons, with only 2022-23 (8.6) being comparable. This slight decline aligns with reduced efficiency (TS%, PER) and defensive metrics (SPG, DRPG), though he remained a top-tier contributor.

    Yes, Giannis is past his prime and not improving

    Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 2024-25 regular season featured important and meaningful statistical regressions. He posted lower numbers in points (compared to 2022-23), free-throw attempts and percentage, steals, field goal attempts, three-point shooting, and minutes played compared to various prior seasons. As Giannis is past his prime at age 30, these declines signal a meaningful downward trend, yet another reason no teams are beating down the door for trades.

    Sources: Basketball-Reference.com, ESPN.com, NBA.com, RotoWire.com, Proballers.com, LandOfBasketball.com, Yahoo Sports, and posts on X. All stats are accurate as of April 30, 2025.