Alex Antetokounmpo, the youngest member of the Antetokounmpo basketball family, is currently on a two-way contract with the Milwaukee Bucks, having spent previous seasons developing in the NBA’s G League and overseas. While his career is still in its early stages, his unique athletic profile and family name have kept him in the spotlight. However, the influence of nepotism on his NBA pathway and the Bucks’ roster construction continues to provoke discussion and criticism.
Player Profile and Physical Attributes
Standing at 2.03 meters (about 6’7″) with a wingspan reportedly reaching 7’2”, Alex is an athletic combo forward. His background includes experience in both European leagues (Aris Thessaloniki) and NBA G League teams, such as the Wisconsin Herd and Raptors 905. He’s known for his physical tools, competitive drive, and the potential to fill multiple forward roles on the floor.
Strengths
Athleticism and Length: Alex’s physical attributes—elite length, solid leaping ability, and good size for a wing—make him a versatile defender and potential transition weapon.
Energy and Hustle: He plays with effort, often making positive hustle plays, chasing rebounds, and disrupting passing lanes with deflections.
Open Floor Play: He’s particularly effective in transition and filling lanes for fast breaks, running the floor well and drawing fouls.
Passing Vision and Rebounding: Alex has shown flashes as a ballhandler with decent passing instincts, and he’s a strong offensive rebounder for his position.
Weaknesses
Raw Skillset: While his athleticism is undeniable, Alex is regarded as a raw prospect. He does several things at a decent level but doesn’t yet excel in any specific area.
Shooting Consistency: His shooting mechanics and shot selection are inconsistent, resulting in below-average percentages, especially from three-point range. His feet orientation and repetitive shooting form need significant work.
Ball Handling: He remains turnover-prone, with loose ball-handling, especially under pressure or when forced to use his left hand.
Decision Making: Tends to make questionable decisions with the ball, telegraphing passes or choosing poor moments for aggressive plays.
Defensive Awareness: Despite physical tools, he sometimes struggles with defensive rotations, help defense, and maintaining focus.
Statistical Snapshot (G League Averages):
Season
Team
MPG
PPG
RPG
APG
FG%
3P%
FT%
2023-24
Wisconsin Herd
21.2
5.7
2.9
0.6
32.0
19.6
71.4
2022-23
Wisconsin Herd
22.3
5.8
3.1
0.8
37.2
24.7
55.9
Career
18.6
5.0
2.6
0.6
36.7
24.7
63.3
NBA Potential
Despite his potential upside, Alex currently projects as a fringe rotation player—his ceiling will depend on significant development in skill areas and decision-making. Scouts note he could become a switchable defender and secondary playmaker with 3-and-D value, but this requires improvement in perimeter shooting, ball security, and on-ball defense.
Nepotism and Its Impact on the Bucks
The Antetokounmpo family connection undeniably influences roster decisions. Giannis’s status as the franchise centerpiece has led the Bucks to extend opportunities to his brothers, including Thanasis and Alex, often at the expense of more competitive or developmental roster spots. High-profile commentators have called out this nepotism, suggesting it undermines meritocratic team building and can create resentment or frustration among teammates striving for opportunities on talent alone.
Limited Roster Spots: Two-way and end-of-bench positions are valuable for developing young talent. Allocating these to family members primarily for off-court harmony or star retention can stunt the growth of other prospects.
Locker Room Dynamics: Nepotism may strain relationships if players feel roles aren’t earned, potentially affecting locker room morale and on-court chemistry.
Team Performance: While strengthening Giannis’s ties to Milwaukee may have intangible benefits, it can impair overall competitiveness if the roster isn’t built purely on merit.youtube
So what’s the point?
Alex Antetokounmpo’s NBA journey is emblematic of both the opportunities and controversies created by family ties in pro sports. He embodies raw physical talent and hustle but lacks a specialized skill set at the moment. For now, his presence on the Bucks is less a product of exceptional on-court impact than of Giannis’s influence, and ongoing nepotism risks diminishing the franchise’s talent pipeline and fairness in player development.
The real problem is Giannis. A 30 year old adult claiming he needs his brothers around to perform? Are we all serious?
There really is not that much to go on so here are all my sources for this post.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, even after over a decade in the league has certain aspects of his game stubbornly underdeveloped. These weaknesses—ranging from inconsistent shooting to poor screening and defensive lapses—can be traced back to his unconventional entry into basketball. Unlike many NBA stars who honed their skills from childhood, Giannis didn’t start playing organized basketball until he was around 13 years old, first touching a basketball at that age and beginning professional play in Greece at 16. This late start meant he missed out on years of foundational training, where muscle memory for technical skills like shooting form, screen-setting technique, and quick decision-making is typically built. Instead, Giannis has relied heavily on his extraordinary physical gifts—length, speed, and power—to compensate, but these gaps persist, affecting both his individual performance and the Milwaukee Bucks’ team dynamics.
Struggles at the Charity Stripe and Beyond: The Shooting Woes
One of the most glaring and persistent issues in Giannis’ arsenal is his shooting, particularly from the free-throw line and long range. Despite years of practice and tweaks to his routine, his career free-throw percentage hovers at a mediocre 69.3%, dipping to 61.7% in recent seasons. This isn’t just a minor flaw; it’s a strategic vulnerability that opponents exploit, especially in playoffs, by fouling him intentionally to disrupt drives and force him to the line. Insiders have pointed out that if Giannis could convert at a higher rate—given he leads the league in free-throw attempts—he’d likely have more MVP trophies, as it would naturally boost his scoring average without additional shots.
Beyond free throws, his overall shooting profile reveals deficiencies. He’s historically struggled with three-pointers and mid-range shots, posting some of the lowest field-goal percentages in the league in these areas during playoffs. While recent developments show improvement in mid-range efficiency (hitting 54.5% over stretches and ranking second league-wide in certain periods), his form lacks the fluidity of players who drilled jumpers from a young age. And of course he has no mid range when it matters in the playoffs or harder regular season games. This ties directly to his late start: Shooting is a skill rooted in repetition and mechanics developed early. Without that foundation, Giannis’ attempts often look mechanical or forced, relying on power rather than touch. In half-court sets, defenses sag off him, daring him to shoot, which clogs driving lanes and limits his effectiveness as a playmaker.
The Art of the Pick: Why Giannis Can’t Set Effective Screens
Screen-setting might seem like a basic team skill, but for Giannis, it’s a glaring weakness that hampers the Bucks’ offense. Analysts describe his screens as “ghost screens”—half-hearted efforts where he doesn’t establish a solid base, sets them too high, or angles them poorly, allowing defenders to slip through easily. With his massive 7-foot, 253-pound frame, he should be a screening powerhouse, but instead, he often prioritizes rolling to the rim for his own scoring opportunities, leading to shoddy execution. Statistically, this shows: He averages just over two screen assists per game, generating only five points, and the Bucks rank near the bottom in off-screen efficiency at 0.5 points per possession.
This flaw is particularly damaging in pick-and-roll heavy schemes with stars like Damian Lillard, where effective screens create space for pull-ups or drives. Without them, the offense stagnates, forcing isolation plays. Again, the late start explains this: Screening requires precise footwork, body positioning, and timing—fundamentals drilled in youth leagues. Giannis, who jumped straight into high-level play without that base, treats it as an afterthought, leaning on his athleticism to dominate individually rather than synergize with teammates.
Giannis’ screening IQ is obviously something that can’t magically appear. He doesn’t understand angles at the most fundamental level. He also doesn’t understand
Defensive Reactions: Elite Talent with Occasional Lapses
Giannis is a defensive monster—his length and instincts earned him DPOY honors—but he isn’t flawless. Critics note he struggles with quick reactions in certain scenarios, like chasing guards around screens or maintaining off-ball awareness. He can “fall asleep” off the ball, failing to rotate promptly or box out, which leads to easy rebounds or cuts for opponents. While his help defense is elite, perimeter switching exposes slower lateral quickness against shifty guards, and his reactions in complex schemes can lag.
This isn’t about effort but ingrained habits. Starting basketball late meant less exposure to defensive drills that build anticipation and reaction speed. Players like Kawhi Leonard or Draymond Green, who started young, have that intuitive read-and-react ability honed over years. For Giannis, defense is more reactive to his physical tools than proactive fundamentals, making him vulnerable in playoff matchups where teams scheme to isolate these gaps.
Passing and Decision-Making: The Half-Court Hurdles
Giannis’ passing is another area where limitations shine through. While he averages solid assists, he’s not a “great passer,” as opponents like Alperen Sengun have exploited by collapsing the paint and forcing him into tough decisions. In half-court sets, he struggles with quick reads, often over-dribbling (sometimes for 14 seconds) or opting for isolation shots instead of hitting open teammates. This contributes to the Bucks’ low rankings in passes and assists, turning a potential juggernaut into a predictable unit.
Tied to his late start, decision-making under pressure requires basketball IQ built from countless reps in varied scenarios. Without early immersion, Giannis defaults to his strengths—driving or pulling up—rather than orchestrating like a true point forward.
Ball-Handling, Counter Moves, and Other Bad Habits
Giannis’ handle lacks creativity, making him predictable when trapped. He
doesn’t have a wide array of counter moves, often resorting to the same Euro-step or spin without variation. Bad habits compound this: fascination with inefficient isolation mid-rangers or dribble-up threes, poor off-ball movement, and inconsistent boxing out. These stem from relying on physical dominance rather than refined skills, a byproduct of skipping foundational years.
The Cost of a Late Bloom and Paths Forward
Giannis’ weaknesses aren’t from lack of effort—he’s worked tirelessly to improve. But starting at 13 meant building a skyscraper on a shallow foundation; the cracks show in technical areas requiring early muscle memory. For the Bucks to contend, Giannis must evolve beyond isolation heroics, embracing team play like better screens and quicker passes. At 30, there’s still time, but these lingering issues remind us: Even freaks of nature have human origins.
In the NBA’s endless hypothetical superteam debates, few pairings spark as much intrigue as Giannis Antetokounmpo and Stephen Curry. On paper, the Greek Freak’s athletic dominance combined with Curry’s unparalleled shooting seems like a recipe for dynasty-level success. But dig deeper, and the fit starts to unravel. Giannis’s playing style—dominated by ball possession, physical drives, and limited off-ball contributions—clashes with Curry’s need for fluid motion, elite screening, and quick decision-making.
The Screening Issue: Giannis’s Weakness Undermines Curry’s Greatest Strength
Stephen Curry’s game revolves around off-ball movement and using screens to create space for his lethal three-point shooting. He’s thrived with screen-setters like Draymond Green, who not only set solid picks but also read defenses, slip when needed, and facilitate from the short roll. Giannis, however, is notoriously poor at this fundamental big-man skill, often prioritizing his own scoring over team play.
Observers have noted that Giannis tends to set screens too high or fails to establish a solid base, allowing defenders to slip around easily and disrupt the play. In pick-and-roll situations, he frequently slips the screen prematurely to hunt mismatches in the post, demanding the ball instead of creating opportunities for others. This self-focused approach was critiqued in analyses of his role with the Bucks, where even fans and analysts questioned his commitment to screening as a key offensive tool. For Curry, who relies on screens to generate 40% of his shots (per NBA tracking data), this would be disastrous. Without reliable picks, defenses could switch or hedge more aggressively on Curry, stifling his rhythm and forcing him into contested looks. Giannis’s athleticism might help in transition, but in half-court sets—where Curry does his damage—his screening lapses would turn the offense stagnant.
Social media echoes this sentiment, with recent discussions highlighting Giannis’s bad screening as a persistent flaw that hampers guard-big synergies. In a system like Golden State’s, where screening is an art form, Giannis’s habits would clash, leaving Curry isolated and underutilized.
Ball Dominance: Giannis’s Hogging Habits Would Starve Curry’s Off-Ball Brilliance
Giannis is one of the league’s highest-usage players, often controlling the ball for extended possessions to bulldoze to the rim. This “ball hog” label isn’t new—it’s been thrown at him in high-profile feuds, like with James Harden, who implied Giannis’s style lacks passing nuance. Stats back it up: Giannis’s usage rate hovers around 33-35%, meaning he touches the ball on a massive portion of possessions, often leading to iso-heavy play. Critics argue this pads his stats but doesn’t elevate teammates as effectively as true facilitators.
Curry, conversely, excels off the ball, using gravity to warp defenses even without possession. Pairing him with Giannis would force Curry into a spot-up role more often, diminishing his playmaking (he averaged 6.5 assists in 2024-25). Recent Bucks games highlighted this issue: when Giannis dominated the ball, teammates like Damian Lillard saw reduced touches, leading to frustration and inefficiency. On X (formerly Twitter), users frequently call out Giannis’s hogging, with posts noting how it led to losses despite his gaudy lines. In a Curry-led offense, this possessiveness would create tension, as Steph’s motion-based system demands quick ball movement—not prolonged dribble drives.
Clutch-Time Reliability: Giannis Falters When It Matters Most
Curry is synonymous with clutch performance, hitting game-winners and thriving under pressure with a career 43% three-point shooting in clutch situations. Giannis? His clutch stats tell a mixed story at best, often marred by poor free-throw shooting and decision-making. In 2024-25, he shot just 68.8% from the line in clutch minutes, missing key opportunities. Overall clutch efficiency ranks him mid-tier among stars, with a +15.1 net rating but inconsistent scoring (3.6 PPG in clutch games).
Critics point to playoff meltdowns, like the 2023 first-round exit where his free-throw woes (notably in clutch spots) contributed to the Bucks’ collapse. On X, discussions label him “not clutch,” citing games where he deferred or bricked in crunch time. For a duo with Curry, who’d draw double-teams late, Giannis’s unreliability—especially from the stripe—could cost championships. Defenses would foul him intentionally, turning potential wins into free-throw lotteries.
The Core Problem: Giannis’s Basketball IQ and Reaction Speed Don’t Fit Advanced Schemes
Most damning is Giannis’s perceived low basketball IQ, slow processing, and struggles with complex plays—traits that would torpedo a partnership with Curry’s cerebral, read-and-react style. Gilbert Arenas famously questioned Giannis’s smarts, asking if he’s “smarter than LeBron James or Stephen Curry” and arguing his success stems from athleticism, not intellect. Videos and analyses highlight players doubting his IQ, noting he relies on raw power over nuanced reads.
Reddit threads debate this, with many concluding he’s not “high IQ” despite stats. His reaction time in half-court offenses is slower, often leading to forced drives rather than exploiting mismatches creatively. Curry’s Warriors run intricate sets with split actions, back screens, and rapid decisions—Giannis’s inability to “think or react fast” would bog it down. Even his passing, while improved (7.3 APG in 2024), is critiqued as basic, not elite like Jokic’s or LeBron’s. In advanced plays, he’d struggle to adapt, turning a dynamic offense into a predictable one.
Hypothetical analyses of a Giannis-Curry pairing acknowledge the gravitational pull but warn of stylistic clashes. While some see it as “unfair” dominance, others note Giannis’s limitations would hinder Curry’s freedom.
A Superteam That Sounds Better Than It Plays
Giannis Antetokounmpo is a force of nature, but his screening deficiencies, ball-hogging, clutch inconsistencies, and limited IQ make him a poor fit for Stephen Curry’s ecosystem. Curry needs space creators and quick thinkers; Giannis provides brute force but at the cost of flow. In a league where chemistry trumps talent alone, this duo would frustrate more than dominate. Better to keep them apart—let Giannis bulldoze in Milwaukee, and Curry dance in the Bay. Real skills matter and Giannis simply hasn’t developed them at all. If anything he is getting worse (at ft% and 3pt% for sure.) As usual, Bucks (and Golden State) fans are talking as if the NBA is a video game.
In the ever-evolving drama of the NBA, few stories capture the tension between player power and organizational loyalty quite like the recent saga involving Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks. On October 8, 2025, the two-time MVP made headlines with comments that hinted at a potential exit from Milwaukee if the team doesn’t contend for a championship this season. “Right now, my focus is on the Bucks,” Giannis said, “but it’s human nature to change your mind if things don’t go as planned.” These words, amid swirling trade rumors linking him to the New York Knicks—especially after their blockbuster acquisition of Karl-Anthony Towns—sparked immediate backlash.
Enter NBA legend Charles Barkley, who didn’t mince words during an appearance on ESPN. Barkley lambasted Giannis for what he perceives as entitlement, stating, “These guys, they feel like they’re entitled to play for the championship every year. … Everybody wants to win a championship, but the Bucks have done everything they possibly could.” Barkley’s critique resonates deeply, not just because of his Hall of Fame credentials, but because it highlights a stark reality: the Bucks have bent over backward to build a contender around Giannis, often at great cost to their future. In this blog post, we’ll dive into why Barkley is spot-on and why Giannis’s stance comes across as ungrateful, given the franchise’s extraordinary efforts.
The Bucks’ Investment in an Unknown Prospect
Let’s rewind to 2013. The Milwaukee Bucks, a small-market team often overshadowed in the NBA landscape, took a gamble on a lanky, relatively unknown teenager from Greece in the NBA Draft. Selected 15th overall, Giannis Antetokounmpo was far from a sure thing—raw talent with immense potential but little polish. The Bucks didn’t just draft him; they invested years in his development. Through dedicated coaching, strength training, and on-court opportunities, they transformed him from a skinny prospect into the “Greek Freak,” a dominant force who would go on to win two MVP awards, a Defensive Player of the Year honor, and lead the team to glory.
This patience and belief paid off spectacularly in 2021 when Giannis delivered a championship to Milwaukee, ending a 50-year drought. His 50-point masterpiece in the Finals closeout game earned him MVP honors, cementing his legacy. But the Bucks’ commitment didn’t start or end there—it was a foundational bet on his future that no other team might have made.
All-In Moves: Trades, Contracts, and Coaching Changes
Barkley’s point about the Bucks doing “everything they possibly could” isn’t hyperbole; it’s backed by a series of bold, franchise-altering decisions. In 2020, sensing the need for a defensive anchor to complement Giannis, Milwaukee traded Eric Bledsoe, George Hill, and multiple first-round picks to acquire Jrue Holiday. This move was pivotal, directly contributing to the 2021 title run.
Post-championship, the Bucks rewarded Giannis with a five-year, $228 million supermax extension in December 2020, securing his services and signaling their long-term vision. When the team hit a rough patch, they didn’t hesitate to shake things up. In May 2023, they fired championship-winning coach Mike Budenholzer after a first-round playoff exit to the Miami Heat. They hired Adrian Griffin in June 2023, only to dismiss him mid-season despite a 30-13 record, replacing him with Doc Rivers—moves that aligned with Giannis’s preferences for change.
The Bucks went even further in September 2023, trading Jrue Holiday, Grayson Allen, and more picks to Portland for Damian Lillard, pairing Giannis with another superstar guard in a desperate bid to reignite contention. This trade mortgaged their draft capital through 2031, leaving the team with limited flexibility. As Barkley noted, “The Bucks have done everything they can.”
Entering the 2025-26 season, Milwaukee continued their all-in approach. They signed Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million deal in July 2025, adding rim protection to bolster the frontcourt alongside Giannis. Free-agent additions like Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince, and Delon Wright deepened the roster, pushing the payroll over $170 million and deep into the luxury tax’s second apron. These aren’t half-measures; they’re sacrifices that have capped the team’s future options, all to maximize Giannis’s prime.
Even on a personal level, the Bucks have shown loyalty by keeping Giannis’s brother, Thanasis Antetokounmpo, on the roster since 2019. Despite his limited on-court impact, this provides family stability—a rare perk in the cutthroat NBA.
Injuries, Not Incompetence: The Real Culprit Behind Recent Struggles
Giannis’s hints at departure ignore a crucial factor: injuries, not front-office failures, have been the primary roadblock. In the 2024 playoffs, his absence due to injury contributed to a first-round loss to the Indiana Pacers. The Bucks’ core has been plagued by health issues, but the organization has responded by rebuilding the roster aggressively. As Barkley emphasized, “I want someone to love me as much as the Bucks love Giannis.”
In contrast to Barkley’s era, where stars like him endured years with underperforming teams without demanding trades (though Barkley himself requested one from the 76ers in the early ’90s for similar reasons), modern players expect perennial contention. But Milwaukee has delivered far beyond what’s typical for a small-market franchise. Ownership even changed hands in 2014 to fund arena upgrades and retain Giannis, demonstrating a commitment to infrastructure and stability.
The Entitlement Factor: Forgetting Roots and Undermining Loyalty
Giannis’s comments smack of entitlement because they overlook his origins. Without the Bucks’ faith and resources, he might not have evolved into the superstar he is today. He publicly praised the organization’s efforts in 2021, vowing loyalty, but his recent waffling undermines that narrative. Expecting annual titles ignores the NBA’s increasing parity, with powerhouse Eastern Conference rivals like the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers.
Barkley’s frustration is echoed across the league and media. As one analyst put it, “The Bucks have given Giannis everything he wanted—they traded a ton for Jrue, for Dame, and now put themselves in cap hell.” Giannis’s stance feels ungrateful, especially when compared to players who stuck it out in tougher situations. The Bucks aren’t a dysfunctional franchise; they’re a model of player-centric building, and Barkley’s call-out serves as a reminder that loyalty should be a two-way street.
Time for Gratitude, Not Exit Threats
Charles Barkley isn’t just stirring the pot—he’s highlighting a fundamental truth about the NBA’s player-empowerment era. The Milwaukee Bucks have exhausted every avenue to build around Giannis Antetokounmpo, from draft investments and blockbuster trades to coaching overhauls and massive contracts. In return, veiled threats of departure come across as entitled and ungrateful, especially from a player who owes much of his success to the franchise’s unwavering support.
As the 2025-26 season unfolds, Giannis has a chance to repay that loyalty with performance and commitment. But if Barkley’s words ring true, perhaps it’s time for the Greek Freak to reflect on how far the Bucks have carried him—and how much further they could go together. In a league where rings are the ultimate goal, true greatness also involves appreciating the journey and the team that made it possible.
In the high-stakes world of the NBA, superstar players like Giannis Antetokounmpo hold immense leverage, especially when their contracts include player options. As the 2025-26 season tips off, whispers about the Greek Freak’s future with the Milwaukee Bucks are growing louder amid trade rumors and questions about the team’s championship viability. While Giannis can’t walk away immediately after this season, his contract structure sets him up for unrestricted free agency as early as the summer of 2027 – at the end of the 2026-27 season. Once he declines his player option, the Bucks will have zero recourse to keep him. Let’s break down the rules, his contract details, and why Milwaukee is essentially at his mercy.
Giannis’s Contract: A Timeline of Security and Flexibility
Giannis has been a Buck since 2013, rising from a raw rookie to a two-time MVP and 2021 NBA champion. His loyalty has been rewarded with massive extensions, but the latest one – signed in October 2023 – gives him an exit ramp that’s hard for the front office to block.
The current deal is a three-year, $175 million maximum veteran extension that kicked in for the 2025-26 season. Here’s the breakdown:
2025-26: $54.1 million (guaranteed).
2026-27: $58.5 million (guaranteed).
2027-28: $62.8 million (player option).
The first two years are fully guaranteed, meaning Giannis is locked in through the end of the 2026-27 season. But the third year? That’s where his power shines. The player option for 2027-28 allows Giannis (or his representatives) to decide by June 29, 2027, whether to exercise it and stay with Milwaukee for one more year at that salary. If he declines – opting out – he hits unrestricted free agency (UFA) in the summer of 2027, free to sign with any team of his choosing.
This isn’t some obscure loophole; it’s a standard feature in NBA supermax contracts for stars like Giannis, who qualify under the Designated Veteran Player rules. These extensions allow teams to pay above the salary cap but often include player-friendly terms like options to maintain flexibility in a league where careers are short and contention windows narrow.
Prior to this extension, Giannis was already under a five-year, $228 million deal from 2020 that carried him through 2025-26, but the new extension superseded the final year for cap purposes. The Bucks front office, led by GM Jon Horst, structured it this way to keep their star happy while navigating the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) restrictions, including the over-36 rule (Giannis turns 33 in 2027, so no over-38 issues yet). But by building in the player option, they’ve handed Giannis the keys to his own destiny.
NBA Rules on Player Options and Free Agency: The Bucks’ Hands Are Tied
To understand why the Bucks can’t stop Giannis from leaving, we need to dive into the NBA’s free agency rules under the current CBA.
A player option is a contractual clause that gives the player – not the team – the unilateral right to decide whether to fulfill the final year(s) of the deal. If exercised, Giannis would play out 2027-28 in Milwaukee. But if he opts out, that year vanishes, and he becomes an unrestricted free agent. As a UFA, any NBA team can negotiate and sign him without restrictions – no qualifying offers, no right of first refusal, nothing. The Bucks’ Bird Rights (which allow over-the-cap re-signings) wouldn’t apply if he opts out and signs elsewhere; they’d only help if he stays or returns later.
Contrast this with restricted free agency, where teams can match offers. Player options like Giannis’s bypass that entirely. The CBA explicitly prohibits contracts from including clauses that limit a player’s free agency after the option period, ensuring stars can chase rings or bigger paydays elsewhere.
Moreover, Giannis doesn’t have a no-trade clause in this extension, meaning the Bucks could theoretically trade him before the opt-out deadline without his consent. But if Giannis wants to play out his guaranteed years and then bolt via free agency, Milwaukee has no leverage. They can’t force him to exercise the option, extend early (he’s eligible for a four-year, $275 million extension starting October 2026, but only if he stays), or block his departure.
In practice, this creates massive trade leverage for Giannis even before 2027. After the 2025-26 season, with just one guaranteed year left, his value skyrockets for contending teams. The Bucks would face a “trade now or lose for nothing” dilemma – a scenario that’s played out with stars like Kevin Durant and James Harden. Recent reports indicate Giannis is already exploring options, with interest from teams like the Knicks, and the Bucks are bracing for potential mid-season drama if results falter.
Why Now? The Bucks’ Window Closing and Giannis’s Leverage
Giannis has repeatedly affirmed his commitment to Milwaukee, saying he’s “locked in” but leaving the door open for change if the team doesn’t contend. The Bucks have surrounded him with talent like Damian Lillard and recent additions, but back-to-back early playoff exits have fueled doubts. At 30 years old (turning 31 in December 2025), Giannis knows his prime won’t last forever. Opting out in 2027 could net him a new supermax elsewhere – potentially over $300 million – with a contender.
For the Bucks, the nightmare is losing their franchise cornerstone for nothing. They can’t poison-pill his contract or use opt-out protections because the CBA doesn’t allow it. Their only plays are winning big this and next season to convince him to extend early or trading him on his terms to recoup assets.
The Bottom Line: Player Power in the Modern NBA
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s player option embodies the shift toward player empowerment in the NBA. By the end of the 2026-27 season, if he chooses to walk, the Bucks are spectators – unable to match offers, extend forcibly, or retain rights. It’s a stark reminder that even loyal stars like the Greek Freak prioritize championships over sentiment. As trade rumors swirl into the 2025-26 season, Milwaukee must deliver, or risk watching their MVP depart on his own terms.
If Giannis Antetokounmpo declines his player option, he would be able to leave the Milwaukee Bucks and become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2027, immediately after the conclusion of the 2026-27 NBA season. His current contract guarantees him two more years, covering the 2025-26 and 2026-27 seasons, with a player option for the 2027-28 season—which he can choose whether or not to accept. If he opts out, the earliest possible departure is July 2027. What is most likely? At the end of this (failed again) Bucks’ season, they try to trade him for as much talent and draft capital they can. Giannis has no choice. But at the end of that second season he returns to Greece.
While Giannis Antetokounmpo has indeed struggled with consistent playoff success, with six first-round exits in his ten playoff appearances (60% first-round exit rate) , a few more top 100 NBA players of all time have actually had worse or comparable playoff failures relative to their talent and expectations.
Karl Malone – Often ranked in the top 15-20 all-time
Karl Malone holds the unfortunate record for most playoff games (193) without winning a championship. Despite being a two-time MVP and reaching two Finals, he suffered multiple devastating losses:
Lost both Finals appearances to Michael Jordan’s Bulls (1997, 1998)
Had significant playoff efficiency drops compared to regular season performance
His transition-heavy style was less effective against disciplined playoff defenses
Charles Barkley – Universally considered top 20-25 all-time
Barkley had a worse playoff series record than Giannis, going 12-13 in playoff series throughout his career :
Only one Finals appearance (1993 loss to Bulls)
Eight first-round exits, compared to Giannis’s six
Career playoff record of 62-61, barely above .500
Steve Nash – Two-time MVP, often ranked 30-40 all-time
Nash never reached an NBA Finals despite his elite regular season success :cbc+1
Played 120 career playoff games without a championship
Series record of 11-12 in the playoffs
Multiple devastating playoff exits with Phoenix despite having superior teamsyoutubecbc
Reggie Miller – Hall of Famer, top 50-75 all-time
Miller’s playoff record was remarkably similar to current Giannis :
Series record of 14-15 in 29 playoff series
Eight first-round exits throughout career
Only one Finals appearance (2000 loss to Lakers)
Played 144 playoff games without winning a championship
Patrick Ewing – Top 50 player, #1 draft pick with championship expectations
Despite being the centerpiece of multiple strong Knicks teams, Ewing never won a championship :
Went 0-5 against Michael Jordan’s Bulls in playoff matchups
139 career playoff games without a title
Known for several crucial playoff failures, including the infamous missed finger-roll
Players with Similar or Slightly Better Records
Chris Paul – Top 75 player, “Point God”
Paul has had numerous devastating playoff collapses :
Record holder for most blown 2-0 playoff leads (4)
Series record barely above .500 at 72-68 overall
Only advanced past the second round twice in 13 playoff appearances
Eight first-round exits in his career
James Harden – Former MVP, top 75 player
Despite regular season excellence, Harden has underperformed in crucial playoff moments :
Multiple playoff collapses, including the infamous 2018 Western Conference Finals
Known for poor elimination game performances
Only one Finals appearance (2012 with OKC as sixth man)
Recent Struggles in Context
Giannis’s recent struggles three consecutive first-round exits from 2023-2025 are concerning. But while Giannis’s six first-round exits in ten appearances represent genuine playoff struggles, at least 5-7 other top 100 players had worse or comparable playoff failures relative to their talent and expectations. Players like Karl Malone, Charles Barkley, Steve Nash, Reggie Miller, and Patrick Ewing all had more devastating playoff careers when accounting for their lack of championships and multiple crushing defeats.
Why Giannis Struggles in the Playoffs: A Comprehensive Analysis
Giannis Antetokounmpo isn’t inherently “bad” in the playoffs—he still puts up impressive individual numbers—but he faces specific, exploitable weaknesses that championship-level teams have learned to target systematically. His playoff struggles stem from a combination of technical limitations, strategic vulnerabilities, and psychological factors that become magnified under postseason pressure.
The Primary Weaknesses
Free Throw Shooting: The Fatal Flaw
Giannis’s most glaring weakness is his free throw shooting, which deteriorates significantly in the playoffs :
Career playoff free throw percentage: 62% compared to 69.3% in regular season
Recent playoff performance: As low as 57% in some series
Strategic impact: Teams deliberately foul him late in games, knowing he’s likely to miss
His excessively long free throw routine (15-20 seconds per shot) creates mental pressure and allows fans to affect his concentration. The routine lacks fluidity and doesn’t mirror his actual shooting motion, making it essentially “not a basketball act”.
The “Giannis Wall” Strategy
Since 2019, teams have deployed a devastating defensive scheme called “The Wall” that has consistently neutralized his dominance :
How it works:
Three defenders collapse on Giannis when he drives, forming a “wall”
Two additional defenders stay back to contest his kick-out passes
Forces him into difficult shots or turnovers
Historical success against Giannis:
2019 Raptors: Pioneered the strategy, won series 4-2
2020 Heat: Perfected it, dominated series 4-1
2022 Celtics: Used effectively despite losing 4-3
2023-2025: Multiple teams continue using variations successfully
Three-Point Shooting Vulnerability
Teams actively encourage Giannis to shoot three-pointers, knowing it plays away from his strengths :
Recent playoff 3PT%: 25-27%, well below league average
Strategic exploitation: Defenses sag off him, daring him to shoot
Shot selection issues: Takes contested threes instead of driving when teams expect it
Psychological and Tactical Factors
Pressure and Decision-Making
Giannis struggles with decision-making when facing intense playoff pressure :
Turnover increase: Higher turnover rate in playoffs, especially against walls
Forcing shots: Tends to force drives into set defenses rather than making correct passes
Takes it personally: Admits he gets emotional when facing “The Wall” strategy
Supporting Cast Dependency
Unlike other superstars, Giannis requires exceptional supporting cast performance to succeed :
2021 championship context: Won with injured opponents (Nets’ Big 3, Lakers’ stars)
Recent struggles: When Middleton, Holiday, or Lillard struggle, Bucks lose
Role player reliance: Needs shooters to make open shots when he passes out of walls
Screen Setting Deficiency
An underrated weakness that affects team offense :
Poor technique: Sets “ghost screens” that don’t create real advantages
Low efficiency: Only 30th percentile as pick-and-roll roll man
Impact on teammates: Limits Damian Lillard’s effectiveness in pick-and-roll
Why These Weaknesses Are Magnified in Playoffs
Preparation Time
Playoff teams have extensive time to study and prepare specific schemes :
Regular season success doesn’t translate when teams gameplan specifically for him
Coaches like Nick Nurse, Erik Spoelstra excel at exploiting these weaknesses systematically
Defensive Intensity and Focus
Playoff defenses are more disciplined and committed to executing complex schemes :
Teams willing to sacrifice individual defense to build effective walls
Better communication and rotation on defensive schemes
More physical play that disrupts his rhythm
Clutch Moments and Mental Pressure
High-stakes situations expose his technical limitations :
Free throw struggles become magnified in close games
Increased pressure affects decision-making under duress
The Championship Exception: 2021
Giannis’s 2021 championship run succeeded because of unique circumstances :
Opponent injuries: Brooklyn’s Big 3 were injured, Lakers eliminated early
Supporting cast peak: Middleton and Holiday played at their highest level
Health: Giannis overcame his own knee injury to deliver historic Finals performance
Giannis isn’t “bad” in the playoffs—he’s a victim of solvable basketball problems that he hasn’t adequately addressed. His combination of free throw struggles, three-point shooting deficiencies, and vulnerability to sophisticated defensive schemes creates a blueprint that disciplined playoff teams can exploit. Unlike transcendent playoff performers who elevate their games under pressure, Giannis’s technical limitations become more pronounced when facing elite, prepared defenses with months to gameplan specifically for his weaknesses.
In the whirlwind world of the NBA, where superstars chase championships and global endorsements, few stories tug at the heartstrings quite like Giannis Antetokounmpo’s. The man they call the Greek Freak—born in Athens to Nigerian immigrant parents, risen from street-hustling kid to two-time MVP and NBA champion—has always worn his roots on his sleeve. But today, a new chapter unfolds that’s less about highlight reels and more about family foundations: Giannis’ wife, Mariah Riddlesprigger, and their four young children have officially settled permanently in Athens, Greece. Their sons have even started kindergarten at the prestigious Athens College, marking a bold pivot toward the homeland that shaped him.
This isn’t just a seasonal relocation; it’s a seismic shift for a family that’s called Milwaukee home since Giannis was drafted in 2013. As the Bucks gear up for another title run, Giannis faces his first NBA season separated from his loved ones. What does this mean for the 30-year-old phenom? Could it fuel his fire on the court, or add an emotional weight to his already Herculean load? Or is he preparing for a return to Greece soon?
## A Family Forged in Adversity: Giannis’ Journey from Sepolia Streets to NBA Stardom
To understand the significance of this move, we need to rewind to Giannis’ origins. Born Giannis Sina Ugo Antetokounmpo on December 6, 1994, in Athens’ gritty Sepolia neighborhood, he grew up stateless for years—his parents, Charles and Veronica, had fled Nigeria in the early 1990s seeking better opportunities, only to face poverty and discrimination in Greece. The family scraped by selling watches and handbags on the streets, with young Giannis and his brothers (Thanasis, Kostas, and Alex) pitching in to keep food on the table.
Basketball became their escape. Scouted by local coach Spiros Velliniatis at age 13, Giannis’ raw athleticism— that impossible blend of 6’11” frame, speed, and power—propelled him from Filathlitikos’ youth teams to the NBA in a meteoric rise. By 2013, he was in Milwaukee, dragging his family across the Atlantic for a shot at the American Dream. Today, three of the four brothers play professionally in the NBA, and their AntetokounBros Academy in Athens offers free training to underprivileged kids, echoing the support they once received.
Enter Mariah Riddlesprigger, a philanthropist and former college volleyball star whom Giannis met in Milwaukee. The couple, who married in a lavish summer 2024 ceremony after welcoming three children, have built a life centered on quiet joys amid the spotlight. Their kids—Liam Charles (born February 10, 2020), Maverick Shai (August 18, 2021), Eva Brooke (September 14, 2023), and the newest addition, Aria Capri (born around June 2025)—represent the next generation of Antetokounmpos. Rarely seen in public, they’ve been fixtures at Bucks games and family milestones, like the 2022 premiere of Disney+’s *Rise*, the film chronicling their immigrant saga.
Giannis has always been vocal about fatherhood’s pull. In interviews, he’s said he’d retire on the spot if Liam asked for more playtime, underscoring how family anchors his relentless drive. Now, with the kids’ early years in flux, the pull of Greece feels inevitable.
## The Move: From Milwaukee Winters to Athenian Sunsets
Whispers of a Greek return have swirled for years—Giannis bought a sprawling, futuristic apartment complex in the upscale Paleo Psychiko suburb of Athens back in 2023 for an estimated €10 million ($11 million), complete with units for his mother and brothers. But this summer, it became reality. As of September 2025, Mariah and the four children have made the transatlantic leap permanent, trading Milwaukee’s chilly, humid climate (where even July highs rarely top 26°C/79°F) for Athens’ Mediterranean warmth.
The kids’ integration is already underway. Five-year-old Liam and four-year-old Maverick kicked off the school year at Athens College, one of Greece’s most elite institutions, known for its rigorous bilingual curriculum and alumni like shipping magnates and politicians. It’s no accident; Giannis, ever the planner, chose it to give his sons “only the best” from their formative years. Two-year-old Eva and four-month-old Aria are settling into the family rhythm, with the household buzzing in a quiet neighborhood where passersby remain blissfully unaware of their famous residents.
This isn’t a trial run. Sources close to the family confirm it’s a multi-year commitment, with Giannis commuting between continents during the offseason and, presumably, holidays. The Bucks star returned to Milwaukee practice just days ago, but the separation marks uncharted territory for a man who’s thrived on stability.
## Why Now? Roots, Climate, and a Vision for the Future
So, what sparked this bold step? It’s a cocktail of personal, cultural, and practical factors. Foremost: Mariah’s preference. When Giannis polled her on Milwaukee versus Athens, she chose the Greek capital without hesitation, citing the vibrant community, milder weather, and cultural richness. “Greece suits us better,” insiders note, a sentiment echoed in Giannis’ own long-held dreams of returning home.
Giannis has been candid about his love for Athens. In a July 2025 interview, he declared, “I’m definitely thinking of coming to Greece permanently when I retire… Athens is my home.” His tears after captaining Greece to a bronze at EuroBasket 2025—the country’s first medal since 2009—spoke volumes about his emotional tether. The move aligns with his vision: exposing his kids to their heritage, fluent Greek lessons, and summers on sun-drenched islands, all while nurturing the AntetokounBros legacy through local philanthropy.
Practically, it’s savvy. With business ventures blooming in Greece (from real estate to the family’s academy), and rumors of a post-NBA stint with Filathlitikos—the club that launched him—rooting the family there streamlines logistics. Unlike LeBron James, whom he admires, Giannis has hinted he’s not chasing a 40-year-old career; he wants to peak now and pivot sooner, perhaps ending his playing days in the Hellenic League.
## The Ripple Effects: Emotional Turbulence, On-Court Fuel, and Long-Term Legacy
No sugarcoating it: this separation could test Giannis like never before. For the first time, he’ll lace up for Bucks games without his family’s courtside cheers or post-practice cuddles. “It will not be easy,” those in his circle admit, especially with a newborn at home. The 8-hour time difference and grueling travel—private jets notwithstanding—could amplify the isolation of NBA life, potentially stirring anxiety or homesickness. We’ve seen stars like Kevin Durant grapple with similar family strains; for Giannis, whose identity is so intertwined with family, it might manifest as restless energy or, worse, distraction.
Yet, there’s profound upside. Psychologically, knowing his kids are immersed in their cultural bedrock could lighten his load, freeing mental bandwidth for the court. Imagine the motivation: every dunk a dedication to providing that “best” education, every assist a step toward a post-retirement life unmarred by regret. History shows fatherhood sharpens focus—post-Liam’s birth, Giannis averaged 29.5 points in the 2020-21 championship run. This move might supercharge that, turning transatlantic longing into unbreakable resolve.
On the family front, it’s a win for stability. Milwaukee’s transient NBA scene pales against Athens’ extended-family vibe, where Veronica can dote on grandkids and the brothers collaborate on ventures. For the children, it’s a bilingual, multicultural upbringing—Greek summers, American holidays—that mirrors Giannis’ own hybrid identity, fostering resilience they’ll need in a global world.
Career-wise, it signals maturity. At 30, with a supermax extension through 2028, Giannis is eyeing legacy beyond rings. Settling his family in Greece positions him as a bridge-builder: the immigrant kid who returns to uplift, not just extract. It could extend his prime by reducing burnout, and if whispers of an Athens NBA expansion hold water, who knows? The Greek Freak might one day headline a Euro league.
Of course, risks linger. If the Bucks falter or injuries mount (recall his 2023 knee scare), the pull of home might accelerate retirement talks. And logistically? Balancing Daddy duty with 82 games demands ninja-level scheduling.
## Closing the Circle: A Freakish Return to Roots
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s family move to Athens isn’t an ending—it’s a homecoming that closes the circle on a life story scripted in struggle and stardom. From Sepolia’s shadows to Milwaukee’s spotlight, he’s always chased wholeness: for himself, his brothers, his parents, and now his children. This decision, though laced with sacrifice, underscores his core value—family above all.
As the season tips off, watch for that extra gear in Giannis’ game. It might just be the fuel to chase another ring, knowing his little freaks are thriving where it all began. In a league of mercenaries, the Greek Freak remains gloriously grounded. And in doing so, he reminds us: true greatness isn’t measured in trophies alone, but in the homes we build across oceans.
Personally I think it will be a convenient excuse. When he fails again this year to achieve anything in the post season he will use his family as an excuse to justify playing in Europe with a Greek team. And all he has said over the years about loyalty to the Bucks and the place that has been home all these years will go out the window…
*Sources: Proto Thema English, New Greek TV, People Magazine, Greek Reporter, Hellenic Daily News.*
Since 1999, FIBA limits each team to only one naturalized player on the roster, which forces teams to rely mostly on native or dual-national players (passport obtained before age 16). This rule aims to maintain competitive balance and national representation authenticity. Many strong teams carefully select their one naturalized player to fill key roster gaps especially at EuroBasket tournaments from 2017 to 2025.
Teams incorporating naturalized players often use them to address specific positional needs (e.g., point guard or centre) not adequately covered by native players, which can enhance overall team performance and competitiveness. For example, the European champion Slovenia in 2017 used the American naturalized player Anthony Randolph effectively alongside Luka Dončić. FIBA rules allow a team to have one naturalized player on their roster who obtained a passport after the age of 16. This creates a loophole for federations to recruit talented players, often from the United States, who have no genuine connection to the country they are representing. It is nationality for convenience. Tyler Dorsey, for instance, a player with Greek heritage who played for Greece in EuroBasket 2025, is still considered “naturalised” by FIBA because he received his passport after the age of 16. Other players, like Jordan Loyd for Poland and Darius Thompson for Italy, acquired citizenship to play in the tournament, despite having no prior ties. This practice is completely different from a player who has a true dual citizenship from birth or has lived in the country for a significant period. While these players may be skilled and contribute to their teams, their presence cheapens the meaning of “national team.” It transforms the competition from a battle of nations into a recruitment war, where the team with the most money and connections can simply buy a star to fill a hole in their roster.
NBA player presence on teams correlates with stronger competitive performance. EuroBasket 2025, for instance, features numerous NBA players across several teams such as Serbia (Nikola Jokić), Germany (Franz Wagner, Dennis Schröder), and France (Bilal Coulibaly). These teams with multiple NBA players generally are regarded as favourites due to elite talent and experience. Teams relying solely on native players without naturalised players sometimes emphasise homegrown talent and strong national basketball traditions (e.g., Latvia in EuroBasket 2025) but may lack the positional flexibility or depth that naturalised players provide. Dual citizenship and naturalisation policies add complexity but offer teams strategic roster-building tools. The trend across the past 5 European Championships (approx. EuroBasket 2009, 2013, 2015, 2017, and 2022/2025) shows increasing integration of NBA talent and naturalized players, with most medal-contending teams having at least one NBA player and a naturalized player selected with tactical purpose. This turns the concept of a true “national team” into a marketing opportunity for the NBA, with fans tuning in not to see national pride, but to watch their favourite players in a different jersey. It dilutes the unique style of European basketball, which traditionally emphasises team-oriented play and structured offences, a point even acknowledged by Giannis’s former coach, Darvin Ham. The focus shifts from the collective to the individual, eroding the very essence of national team competition. Teams with only native players may rely on strong local development but tend to have less roster flexibility and fewer positional specialists brought in via naturalization or NBA experience.
Given the past 5 EuroBasket finals data winners had 1 to 4 NBA players.
Even outside the NBA, it is the NBA dictating who wins. More NBA players means you win basically. Is it a direct correlation? Well no, because some NBA players don’t impact games or don’t risk injury. So what are we even looking at? Some players playing to become famous while the best players are more concerned with protecting their health or getting knocked out early to return to their real work in the NBA.
And then of course is the second problem. Naturalised players, ie completely irrelevant to the country they are playing for usually, those that didn’t even make it in the NBA but are so good compared to local talent that they get on the teams. For example:
Turkey: Shane Larkin (naturalized)
Greece: Tyler Dorsey (naturalized)
Montenegro: Kyle Allman Jr. (naturalized)
Bosnia and Herzegovina: John Roberson (naturalized)
Cyprus: Darral Willis (naturalized)
Georgia: Kamar Baldwin (naturalized)
Portugal: Travante Williams (naturalized)
Italy: Darius Thompson
It is a bit like the old days when the NBA only allowed one negro per team “when the match was tough” as an unofficial rule between the team owners. European teams are playing a silly game with silly rules in fact by having various players naturalised but then only allowing one to play. This is covert racism which leads to a possibly dangerous type of nationalism. The winners are either teams with NBA stars (ie they have learned how to play and have been trained in the NBA) or naturalised players who are the NBA hand me downs. What sort of “national” team is it when the coach has to give instructions in English so that everyone understands?
And that’s not even the start of the problems with this tournament. Injuries come from the players playing too many games. Is it worth it? Why are there so many super weak teams in the tournament? Players get into the temptation to smash records playing against nations that are very weak. It’s not fun to watch either.
The confetti has fallen, the champagne is (finally) dry in Oklahoma City, and the Thunder are the 2025 NBA champions! It’s a fantastic story for a young, exciting team led by the brilliant Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. But as we celebrate their triumph, a familiar whisper has grown into a discernible hum among basketball fans: Does this victory, much like the Milwaukee Bucks’ championship in 2021, expose a league agenda to push small-market teams into the spotlight?
The Thunder’s Ascent: A Fairytale or a Script?
The Oklahoma City Thunder’s journey to the 2025 NBA title is undeniably compelling on the surface. A meticulously constructed roster through smart drafting, patient development, and shrewd trades has blossomed into a legitimate powerhouse. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP-caliber season, coupled with the emergence of young stars like Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams, created a dynamic and entertaining team that captured the imagination of many. They finished with a league-best 68 wins and battled through a tough playoff bracket, ultimately defeating the Indiana Pacers in a thrilling seven-game Finals.
However, a closer look at their Finals opponent, the Indiana Pacers, and the narrative surrounding the series, has led some to draw parallels with the 2021 Bucks’ run. The Pacers, another relatively small-market team, made a surprising charge to the Finals. The series itself was highly competitive, but the unfortunate injury to Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton in Game 7 certainly altered the landscape. While no one wishes injury on a player, it undeniably removed a significant obstacle for the Thunder.
This is where the conspiracy theories begin to swirl. The idea isn’t that the NBA actively caused Haliburton’s injury, but rather that certain circumstances or officiating tendencies might subtly favor the desired narrative of a small-market triumph.
The Bucks’ 2021 Title: A Precedent?
Rewind to 2021. (Here a detailed run through of all the “lucky” moments.) The Milwaukee Bucks broke a 50-year championship drought, defeating the Phoenix Suns in the Finals. At the time, many hailed it as a victory for small-market teams, a testament to building through the draft and developing homegrown talent. It was a refreshing change from the “super team” era that had dominated the league for years.
But even then, some raised eyebrows. Critics pointed to questionable foul calls in key moments, particularly in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Brooklyn Nets, where a hobbled Kevin Durant pushed the Bucks to the brink. The narrative of “the league wanting a small market to win” gained traction. The idea was that the NBA, conscious of criticisms about parity and the dominance of major market franchises, was subtly steering the ship towards a more feel-good story.
The “Small Market” Agenda: Why Would the NBA Do It?
The core of this theory rests on the idea of the NBA’s desire for compelling storylines and, ultimately, increased viewership and engagement. While big markets like Los Angeles and New York always draw attention, a truly organic, underdog success story from a smaller market can resonate deeply with fans across the league. It creates hope for other smaller teams and diversifies the championship landscape, potentially broadening the NBA’s appeal.
Consider these points often cited by proponents of the theory:
Narrative Control: The NBA is a business, and compelling narratives drive interest. A Cinderella story from a small market can be more captivating than another championship for an established powerhouse.
Parity Illusion: Promoting small-market champions can create an illusion of parity, even if underlying systemic issues (like free agency advantages for big markets) persist.
Player Retention: A successful small-market team might encourage stars to stay with their drafting team rather than always seeking out major markets, which could be beneficial for the league’s overall competitive balance.
Refereeing Nuances: This is often the most controversial aspect. Proponents suggest that subconscious biases, or even subtle directives, might lead to more favorable whistle-blowing for the “desired” outcome, particularly in tightly contested games or pivotal moments. Again, this isn’t about outright rigging, but rather an accumulation of small, borderline calls that tip the scales.
Is It a Conspiracy, or Just Good Storytelling?
Ultimately, it’s incredibly difficult to prove or disprove a “league agenda.” The NBA is a complex ecosystem, and every championship team faces its share of favorable and unfavorable bounces. The Oklahoma City Thunder’s inspiring championship run undoubtedly provides excellent fodder for the “small market sweetheart” narrative just as the Bucks’ run did. The NBA, like any major sports league, thrives on drama, compelling stories, and fan engagement. Whether that translates into active manipulation or simply a greater appreciation for the organic rise of a team like the Thunder is a question that will likely remain debated in sports bars and online forums for years to come.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s unique combination of size, speed, and skill has led to a persistent narrative: Giannis has played all five positions. This claim gets tossed around in highlight reels, podcasts, and casual fan debates, but how much truth is there to it? He relies heavily on drives, can’t even shoot free throws to save his life, has almost zero play making skills, has completely given up trying from 3pt land, terrible off the ball, rarely cutting or setting screens to create space, his post game lacks refined footwork or go-to moves. Let’s face it. He ain’t gonna improve either. Defence? Even worse limitations! Giannis struggles to stay in front of smaller, quicker guards on the perimeter due to his size and lateral quickness limitations, making him less effective in switch-heavy schemes against certain match ups. His aggressive help defence leads to overcommitting, leaving shooters open or creating gaps in the Bucks’ defensive rotations. He often gets caught on screens, particularly in pick-and-roll situations, where his recovery speed doesn’t always match his rim-protecting instincts. And of course against sharp-shooting teams, his closeouts on three-point shooters are abysmally slow.
Defining the Five Positions
To evaluate this claim, we first need to define what we mean by “playing all five positions.” In traditional basketball, the five positions are:
Point Guard (PG): The primary ball-handler, playmaker, and floor general, responsible for initiating the offense and distributing the ball.
Shooting Guard (SG): Typically a perimeter-oriented player focused on scoring, often via outside shooting or driving.
Small Forward (SF): A versatile wing player who balances scoring, defense, and sometimes playmaking.
Power Forward (PF): A frontcourt player who combines physicality, rebounding, and scoring, often in the post or mid-range.
Center (C): The anchor of the paint, responsible for rim protection, rebounding, and scoring close to the basket.
In today’s NBA, the lines between these positions have blurred, with “positionless” players like Giannis thriving in multiple roles. But for Giannis to have “played all five positions,” he would need to have meaningfully performed the primary responsibilities of each role in actual NBA games, either as a starter or in specific stints.
Giannis’s Positional Journey
Giannis, at 6’11” with a 7’3” wingspan, entered the NBA in 2013 as a lanky, raw prospect with the Milwaukee Bucks. Over the years, his role has evolved significantly, which fuels the myth of his five-position versatility. Let’s examine his career arc and the positions he’s actually played.
Small Forward: His Natural Starting Point
When Giannis debuted, the Bucks listed him as a small forward. His early role leaned heavily on his athleticism, with responsibilities including:
Transition scoring
Slashing to the basket
Perimeter defense against wings
This is the position where Giannis spent the bulk of his early career (2013–2016). His lanky frame and guard-like agility made him a prototypical modern small forward, capable of guarding multiple positions and running the floor. Official NBA tracking data from Basketball-Reference lists him as a small forward for his first three seasons, and this aligns with his on-court role under coaches like Jason Kidd.
Power Forward: The Modern Role
As Giannis bulked up and developed his game, the Bucks shifted him to power forward, especially under coach Mike Budenholzer starting in 2018. This is where Giannis has thrived most, leveraging his size and skill to:
Attack mismatches in the post
Serve as a help defender and rim protector
Grab rebounds and initiate fast breaks
His dominance as a power forward earned him back-to-back MVPs (2019, 2020) and a Finals MVP in 2021. NBA tracking data confirms that Giannis has played the majority of his minutes at the 4 (power forward) in recent seasons, with advanced lineup data from Cleaning the Glass showing him logging over 70% of his minutes at power forward from 2018 to 2023.
Center: Occasional Stints
Giannis has also played center, particularly in small-ball lineups. The Bucks have used him at the 5 in specific situations, such as:
When Brook Lopez or Bobby Portis is off the floor
In playoff matchups against smaller teams (e.g., the 2021 Nets series)
During “death lineup” configurations to maximize spacing and speed
According to NBA.com’s lineup data, Giannis has spent roughly 10–15% of his minutes at center in recent seasons, often in crunch time or against teams lacking a traditional big. In these stints, he handles rim protection, rebounding, and even some pick-and-roll defense. However, he’s rarely the primary center for extended periods, as Milwaukee prefers Lopez’s floor-spacing and rim protection for most minutes.
The Guard Positions: Where the Myth Stumbles
Here’s where the “all five positions” claim starts to fray. While Giannis’s ball-handling and playmaking have improved dramatically—he averaged 5.6 assists per game in the 2022–23 season and often initiates Milwaukee’s offense—the idea that he’s played point guard or shooting guard in a meaningful way doesn’t hold up.
Point Guard: The “Point Giannis” Hype
The “Point Giannis” narrative took off in 2016 when Jason Kidd famously called Giannis the Bucks’ point guard. That season, Giannis’s usage as a ball-handler increased, and he ran more pick-and-rolls and transition plays. But calling him a point guard was more about hype than reality. Here’s why:
Role vs. Position: Giannis brought the ball up and initiated offense, but he wasn’t guarding opposing point guards like Damian Lillard or Chris Paul. His defensive assignments remained wings and forwards.
Box Score Evidence: Basketball-Reference and NBA.com still listed him as a forward, and his minutes at the 1 were negligible (less than 5% per Cleaning the Glass).
Playstyle: Giannis’s playmaking often came from the high post or after grabbing defensive rebounds, not from running a traditional point guard’s half-court offense.
While Giannis has point guard skills—dribbling, passing, and vision—he hasn’t played the point guard position in the way players like Jrue Holiday or Damian Lillard have done for Milwaukee.
Shooting Guard: The Weakest Link
The claim that Giannis has played shooting guard is even shakier. Shooting guards in the modern NBA (e.g., Devin Booker, Donovan Mitchell) are typically perimeter scorers who rely on outside shooting and off-ball movement. Giannis, by contrast:
Shoots sparingly from three (career 28.6% from three as of 2025)
Rarely plays off-ball as a catch-and-shoot threat
Doesn’t guard opposing shooting guards like Bradley Beal or Zach LaVine. (And if he does it kills his team as per Tyrese blowing by him multiple times in clutch time in these playoffs…)
Lineup data shows no significant minutes logged at the 2. His role has never resembled that of a shooting guard, even in small-ball lineups where he’s more likely to slide to center than guard a perimeter scorer.
Why the Myth Persists
So why does the “all five positions” narrative stick? Several factors contribute:
Positionless Basketball: The NBA’s shift toward positionless play blurs traditional roles. Giannis’s ability to handle, pass, score, and defend multiple players makes him seem like he could play any position, even if he doesn’t.
Highlight Plays: Viral clips of Giannis dribbling past guards or switching onto point guards in crunch time fuel the perception of him as a five-position player.
Coach and Media Hype: Comments like Jason Kidd’s “point guard” label and media narratives about Giannis’s versatility amplify the myth without rigorous analysis.
Fan Imagination: Giannis’s freakish athleticism invites fans to imagine him dominating any role, even ones he hasn’t played.
The Reality: Giannis Is not a Versatile Forward
Giannis has undeniably played three positions—small forward, power forward, and centre—with significant minutes and impact. He hasn’t logged meaningful time as a point guard or shooting guard, nor has he performed their primary duties (e.g., running a half-court offence or playing as an off-ball shooter).
Advanced metrics support this. According to Defensive Player Versatility Index (DVPI) from 2023, Giannis ranks among the top forwards in guarding multiple positions, but his matchups are predominantly against wings and bigs, not guards. Offensively, his usage rate (around 32% in recent seasons) reflects a forward’s role, not a guard’s.
So it’s not true, yet another Giannis hype myth
The myth that Giannis Antetokounmpo has played all five positions doesn’t hold up under scrutiny. He lacks the flexibility to play point guard and shooting guard in a traditional sense. While he has guard-like skills (ball-handling, play making), he doesn’t run a half-court offence like a point guard or play off-ball as a perimeter shooter like a shooting guard. His defensive assignments rarely include guarding opposing guards, and lineup data shows negligible minutes at these positions Next time you hear someone claim Giannis has played all five positions, ask for the game tape. Chances are, they’re just caught up in the legend of the Greek Freak.
Sources
Basketball-Reference.com for positional data and career stats
NBA.com for lineup and tracking data
Cleaning the Glass for advanced positional breakdowns
ESPN and The Athletic for historical context on Giannis’s role evolution
The NBA is no stranger to debates about talent, roster decisions, and the influence of star players on team dynamics. One name that has consistently sparked controversy in recent years is Thanasis Antetokounmpo, the older brother of Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Critics, fans, and analysts alike have pointed to Thanasis as a prime example of nepotism in the NBA, arguing that his roster spot with the Bucks is a direct result of his brother’s influence rather than his own basketball merits.
Thanasis Antetokounmpo’s NBA Career: clearly not good enough
Thanasis Antetokounmpo, born on July 18, 1992, in Athens, Greece, entered the NBA with high expectations as the older brother of a generational talent. Drafted 51st overall by the New York Knicks in 2014, Thanasis spent his early career bouncing between the NBA and the G League, with brief stints in Europe. Since joining the Milwaukee Bucks in 2019, he has remained on the roster, playing alongside his brother Giannis and contributing to the team’s 2021 NBA Championship. However, his on-court production has drawn significant scrutiny as nobody on the planet would claim that he can play at NBA levels of basketball.
By the Numbers: A Lackluster On-Court Impact
To understand Thanasis’s performance, let’s look at his career statistics with the Bucks (as of the 2024-25 season, based on available data):
Minutes Played: Thanasis averages just 4.6 minutes per game across 181 games with the Bucks (through the 2023-24 season). His limited playing time reflects a bench role, often reserved for garbage time or low-stakes situations.
Scoring: His career scoring average with the Bucks is a meager 2.4 points per game, with a field goal percentage of 52.3% and a three-point percentage of 14.3% (on very low attempts, 0.3 per game). His scoring output is negligible, and his inability to stretch the floor with outside shooting limits his offensive utility.
Rebounds and Assists: Thanasis averages 1.6 rebounds and 0.5 assists per game, indicating minimal impact in playmaking or board-crashing.
Advanced Metrics: His Player Efficiency Rating (PER) hovers around 8.0, well below the league average of 15.0. His Win Shares per 48 minutes (WS/48) is 0.048, suggesting he contributes little to team wins when on the court. His Box Plus-Minus (BPM) is consistently negative, often around -4.0, indicating that the Bucks perform worse with him on the floor.
These numbers paint a clear picture: Thanasis is, at best, a fringe NBA player whose statistical contributions are among the lowest on the Bucks roster and possibly the entire league. Videos and highlight reels circulating online often highlight his athletic dunks or hustle plays, but these moments are rare and overshadowed by inefficiencies. For instance, a YouTube video titled “How BAD is Thanasis Antetokounmpo Actually?” notes that his limited skill set—primarily athleticism and energy—doesn’t translate to consistent NBA-level production, with many calling him “the worst player in the NBA”.
Defensive and Intangible Contributions
Proponents of Thanasis argue that his value lies in his defensive effort and locker-room presence. Standing at 6’6” with a 7’0” wingspan, he has the physical tools to be a disruptive defender. He averages 0.4 steals and 0.2 blocks per game, numbers that reflect his hustle but are hardly game-changing. His defensive rating (points allowed per 100 possessions) is around 110, which is average at best and often inflated by playing in low-leverage minutes.
Thanasis is frequently described as a high-energy player who brings enthusiasm to practices and supports his teammates. However, these intangibles are difficult to quantify, and critics argue that they don’t justify a roster spot on a contending team like the Bucks, where every slot is critical for maximising championship odds.
The Nepotism Debate: Is Thanasis on the Bucks Because of Giannis?
The heart of the controversy surrounding Thanasis Antetokounmpo is the accusation of nepotism. Critics, including NBA legend Charles Barkley and analyst Shannon Sharpe, have openly questioned why Thanasis remains on the Bucks roster, pointing to his brother Giannis’s influence as a two-time MVP and franchise cornerstone. Let’s examine the arguments for and against the nepotism claims.
Evidence of Nepotism
Limited NBA-Caliber Production: As outlined above, Thanasis’s statistical output is among the lowest in the league. A 2023 article from Pulse Sports reported an NBA executive branding Thanasis as a product of nepotism, stating, “The rumor circulating social media is that Thanasis is only in the NBA because of his brother”. Fans on X echo this sentiment, with one user (@Not_Guccio) quipping in 2022 that Thanasis has “the best job in the NBA” because he secures a roster spot and millions in salary due to Giannis’s presence, despite rarely playing serious minutes.
Bucks’ Roster Decisions: The Bucks have retained Thanasis since 2019, even waiving and re-signing his younger brother Alex Antetokounmpo within 24 hours in 2023, prompting fans to mock the team for “hearing the nepotism jokes”. The fact that Thanasis has secured multi-year contracts (e.g., a two-year, $3.6 million deal in 2021) while producing minimal on-court impact fuels speculation that the Bucks prioritize keeping Giannis happy over optimizing their roster.
Comparisons to Other Cases: The drafting of Bronny James by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2024 reignited discussions about nepotism, with Thanasis often cited as a parallel. A Basketball Forever article noted that Bronny’s selection drew attention to Thanasis, with critics arguing that both players benefit from their famous relatives’ influence. Charles Barkley has been particularly vocal, joking during the 2022 All-Star Game about Thanasis’s job security and later calling it a “compliment” when Thanasis responded positively.
Giannis’s Influence: Giannis is known to value family deeply, and reports suggest he has advocated for his brothers’ inclusion on the Bucks. A 2023 New York Post article quoted Shannon Sharpe criticizing Giannis for securing roster spots for both Thanasis and Alex, implying that their presence is tied to Giannis’s leverage as a superstar. This perception is reinforced by comments like those from Kendrick Perkins, who questioned Thanasis’s roster spot in a 2023 Fadeaway World piece.
Counterarguments: More Than Nepotism?
Thanasis and his supporters have pushed back against the nepotism narrative. In a 2024 interview, Thanasis responded to Charles Barkley’s jabs, saying, “That’s a compliment because that means I’m a good person”. He emphasized his work ethic, journey from the G League, and contributions to team morale. A Greek City Times article highlighted his role as a supportive teammate, noting that his presence fosters a positive locker-room environment, which is crucial for a championship-caliber team.
Additionally, some argue that Thanasis’s roster spot is not catastrophic. The Bucks won the 2021 NBA Championship with Thanasis on the roster, and his limited minutes (averaging 2.5 minutes per game in the playoffs) suggest he doesn’t add anything to the team’s success. A Reddit user pointed out that if nepotism were the sole factor, the Bucks would have also retained their younger brother Kostas Antetokounmpo, who left the NBA after brief stints. This suggests that Thanasis may offer some value, even if it’s not reflected in box scores. However we have never really seen this in some concrete way. And every time someone says “yes, but it keeps Giannis happy” they are essentially admitting that a) Giannis is weak psychologically and b) that it IS indeed nepotism at its worse. After all the Bucks don’t need to give him a spot on the team. He could be part of the coaching staff if all he does is support Giannis.
Is Thanasis’ presence catastrophic?
The perception that Thanasis’s roster spot is a “catastrophic” example of nepotism stems from several factors:
Opportunity Cost: NBA rosters are limited to 15 players, and every spot is valuable, especially for a contending team like the Bucks. Critics argue that Thanasis occupies a position that could be filled by a more productive player, such as a sharpshooter or defensive specialist. Maybe an experienced player that could make the difference for a few minutes in a critical playoff match up. A BroBible article from December 2024 stated, “Watch Thanasis play, and you can quickly tell he shouldn’t be anywhere close to an NBA roster”. This sentiment is amplified by the Bucks’ struggles in recent seasons, including early playoff exits in 2023 and 2024, which have heightened scrutiny of roster construction.
Fan and Media Backlash: Social media platforms are rife with criticism of Thanasis. A 2024 post from @TheNBACentel humorously quoted Thanasis as saying his job is to “high five the rotation players” and “stand up for Giannis,” encapsulating the perception that his role is ceremonial. YouTube videos with titles like “I’m Sorry, But Why Is Thanasis Antetokounmpo Still In The NBA???” amplify this narrative, often highlighting his mistakes or limited impact.
Contrast with Giannis’s Excellence: Giannis Antetokounmpo is a global superstar, a two-time MVP, and a Finals MVP. His dominance sets an impossibly high bar for his brothers, making Thanasis’s shortcomings more glaring. Fans and analysts expect players associated with Giannis to perform at a high level, and Thanasis’s inability to do so fuels the nepotism narrative.
They are not really that funny. Some claim that the brothers’ banter is social media worthy and entertaining. But this is really hard to support. Their presence at All Star games has always been a let down and their humour is…well…weird to put it politely. For sure it is not producing TV ratings or social media traffic in any good way.
A Balanced Perspective: Catastrophic or Overblown?
While the nepotism accusations carry weight, calling Thanasis’s presence on the Bucks roster “catastrophic” may be an overstatement. The Bucks have maintained a competitive roster, winning a championship in 2021 and remaining a top Eastern Conference team despite recent playoff disappointments. Thanasis’s limited minutes mean he rarely impacts games negatively, and his role as a locker-room leader may provide intangible benefits that outsiders cannot fully assess.
However, the opportunity cost of his roster spot cannot be ignored. In a league where marginal improvements can make or break a championship run, the Bucks’ decision to retain Thanasis over a more skilled player raises questions about priorities. The perception of nepotism is further fueled by Giannis’s undeniable influence, which likely ensures Thanasis’s job security. As one post noted, “Thanasis has had an NBA roster spot for years simply because Giannis is his brother,” a sentiment that resonates with many fans.
No excuse anymore for Thanasis in the NBA
Thanasis Antetokounmpo’s NBA career is a polarizing case study. His statistical output is undeniably poor, with minimal contributions in scoring, rebounding, and advanced metrics. The persistent accusations of nepotism, backed by comments from figures like Charles Barkley and Shannon Sharpe, highlight the belief that his roster spot is tied to Giannis’s stardom rather than his own merit. While his energy and locker-room presence offer some value, the opportunity cost of his roster spot on a contending team like the Bucks fuels the “catastrophic” label.
Thanasis Antetokounmpo does not significantly influence the Milwaukee Bucks’ win/loss record through his individual on-court production. The Bucks have averaged a .638 win percentage all-time when Thanasis is on the team, which is consistent with the high performance of the Giannis-led Bucks era. Thanasis’s direct statistical impact in games is minimal: his career averages are just 2.4 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 0.6 assists in about 8 minutes per game over nearly 200 appearances.
Ultimately, Thanasis’s story reflects a broader tension in the NBA: balancing team chemistry and star player satisfaction with the relentless pursuit of optimal performance. Whether you view him as a nepotism beneficiary or a misunderstood role player, one thing is clear: his presence on the Bucks roster will continue to spark debate as long as Giannis remains the face of the franchise. The only positive spin you can put on it is that it is well and truly traditionally Greek to try and get your relatives a job like that!
The narrative that Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks’ two-time MVP and NBA champion, “needs help” has been a persistent talking point among fans, analysts, and media. Every playoff disappointment or regular-season struggle prompts calls for the Bucks to acquire another superstar or bolster their roster to support their franchise player. However, this perspective oversimplifies the Bucks’ challenges and ignores a critical truth: Giannis himself is often a significant factor in the team’s shortcomings. While his dominance is undeniable, his playstyle, decision-making, and limitations contribute to Milwaukee’s struggles more than the lack of “help” around him.
The Myth of Insufficient Support
The argument that Giannis lacks adequate support often stems from the Bucks’ playoff exits, such as their first-round loss to the Miami Heat in 2023 or their 2024 defeat to the Indiana Pacers. Critics point to the roster, claiming it fails to complement Giannis’s skill set. However, this overlooks the quality of players Milwaukee has assembled. Khris Middleton, a three-time All-Star, has been a reliable second option, averaging 20.1 points per game in the 2022-23 season with a knack for clutch shot-making. Jrue Holiday, before his trade to Boston, was a Defensive Player of the Year candidate and a steady playmaker. Damian Lillard, acquired in 2023, is one of the league’s premier offensive engines, averaging 24.3 points and 7.0 assists in his first season with Milwaukee. Brook Lopez, a Defensive Player of the Year finalist, anchors the paint, while players like Bobby Portis and Pat Connaughton provide depth.
This is not a barren roster. The Bucks’ supporting cast has consistently ranked among the league’s better ensembles, with Milwaukee finishing the 2022-23 season with the NBA’s best record (58-24). Blaming the roster ignores the fact that teams like the 2023 Heat or 2024 Pacers, who ousted Milwaukee, were not necessarily more talented but executed better. The issue isn’t a lack of talent around Giannis—it’s how his playstyle interacts with that talent.
Giannis’s Playstyle: A Double-Edged Sword
Giannis is a force of nature, a 6’11” freight train who combines athleticism, length, and defensive versatility in the past. His ability to drive to the rim, collapse defences, and finish through contact is impressive, evidenced by his career average of 22.9 points per game on 54.7% shooting (as of the 2024-25 season). However, his approach, while devastating, creates challenges that hinder the Bucks in critical moments. When it counts, Giannis comes up short.
Over-Reliance on Drives
Giannis’s game revolves around attacking the basket, often bulldozing through defenders to score or draw fouls. He led the NBA in free-throw attempts per game (11.0) in the 2022-23 season, a testament to his rim pressure. But this one-dimensional approach allows opponents to game-plan effectively. Teams like the Heat and Raptors (in 2019) have employed the “Giannis Wall,” packing the paint with multiple defenders to neutralize his drives. Without a consistent outside shot—his three-point percentage hovers around 27.7% for his career—Giannis struggles when teams dare him to shoot.
This predictability forces the Bucks into stagnant offensive sets. When Giannis barrels into a crowded paint, it often results in turnovers (3.1 per game career average) or low-percentage shots. His insistence on driving, even against set defenses, disrupts Milwaukee’s flow, limiting opportunities for shooters like Lillard or Middleton to exploit open looks. Compare this to players like Nikola Jokić, who blends scoring with elite playmaking (9.0 assists per game in 2023-24), or Kevin Durant, whose mid-range and three-point shooting keep defenses honest. Giannis’s tunnel vision on drives can stifle his team’s offense, making it easier for opponents to dictate the game’s pace.
Free-Throw Struggles and Pace Issues
Giannis’s free-throw shooting, while improved, remains a liability at 65.8% for his career. In high-stakes playoff games, this weakness is magnified. Opponents often employ Hack-a-Giannis strategies, slowing the game and disrupting Milwaukee’s rhythm. His lengthy free-throw routine—often exceeding the 10-second limit—further bogs down the pace, frustrating teammates and fans alike. In the 2023 playoffs, Giannis shot 45.3% from the line against Miami, a glaring issue in tight games.
This slow pace clashes with the modern NBA’s emphasis on speed and spacing. The Bucks ranked 19th in pace (98.5 possessions per game) in 2023-24, limiting their ability to capitalize on transition opportunities where Giannis thrives. His dominance in the half-court often comes at the expense of fluid team play, as teammates stand idle while he attempts to overpower defenders. Giannis simply can’t change the way he plays resulting in the entire team suffering.
Decision-Making in Crunch Time
Giannis’s decision-making in clutch situations is another area where he contributes to Milwaukee’s struggles. His choices in critical moments often falter. In the 2021 championship run, Giannis was phenomenal, but Middleton and Holiday frequently bailed him out in clutch scenarios. Fast forward to 2024, and his 4.4 turnovers per game in the playoffs against Indiana highlighted a recurring issue: forcing plays under pressure. Giannis simply can’t think fast enough when it counts, “he has no bag” for the top level of the NBA.
For example, in Game 5 of the 2023 Heat series, Giannis attempted a game-tying drive with seconds remaining, only to be stripped in traffic, leading to a turnover. A better decision—passing to an open Middleton or Lopez—might have changed the outcome. His reluctance to defer, even when double- or triple-teamed, puts undue pressure on his teammates to compensate for his mistakes. Contrast this with LeBron James, who, despite similar defensive attention, averages 7.4 assists per game by finding open teammates. Giannis’s assist average (5.7 in 2023-24) is solid but doesn’t reflect the same level of trust in his supporting cast.
The Coaching Carousel and Giannis’s Influence
The Bucks’ coaching instability—Mike Budenholzer’s firing in 2023, Adrian Griffin’s midseason dismissal in 2024, and Doc Rivers’ uneven tenure—points to another issue tied to Giannis. Reports suggest Giannis has significant influence over team decisions, from roster moves to coaching hires. The trade for Lillard, while a coup, was reportedly driven by Giannis’s desire for a co-star, yet the fit has been clunky. Lillard’s ball-dominant style clashes with Giannis’s need for touches, leading to a disjointed offense (Milwaukee’s offensive rating dropped from 113.3 in 2022-23 to 112.4 in 2023-24).
Giannis’s reported push for Griffin’s hiring, followed by his quick dismissal, suggests a lack of clarity in his vision for the team. This meddling, while not uncommon for superstars, disrupts continuity. The Bucks’ roster and system are built around Giannis’s strengths, but his influence often prioritizes his comfort over team synergy. For instance, the Bucks’ heavy reliance on drop-coverage defense, tailored to Giannis’s rim protection, limits their ability to switch and adapt against versatile offenses like Miami’s or Boston’s.
Statistical Context: Giannis’s Impact vs. Efficiency
To quantify Giannis’s role in Milwaukee’s struggles, consider his advanced metrics. His usage rate (31.2% in 2023-24) is among the league’s highest, reflecting his ball-dominant style. However, his true shooting percentage (61.3%) lags behind players like Jokić (63.1%) or Anthony Davis (62.4%), who balance efficiency with playmaking. Giannis’s high usage often comes at the expense of teammates’ involvement, as evidenced by Middleton’s shot attempts dropping from 15.1 per game in 2022-23 to 13.0 in 2023-24 despite similar minutes.
Defensively his tendency to roam for highlight plays can leave the Bucks vulnerable, especially against pick-and-roll-heavy teams. In the 2024 playoffs, Indiana’s Tyrese Haliburton exploited Milwaukee’s drop coverage, averaging 8.7 assists per game. Giannis’s defensive discipline still wanes in crucial moments, contributing to breakdowns.
The Counterargument: Does Giannis Really Need Help?
Defenders of the “Giannis needs help” narrative argue that no superstar can win alone. They point to Milwaukee’s injury issues—Middleton’s ankle problems in 2023, Giannis’s own calf injury in 2024—as evidence that the roster fails him in key moments. They also note that Lillard’s defensive limitations and Middleton’s inconsistency place too much burden on Giannis.
While injuries are a factor, they don’t fully excuse the Bucks’ failures. Teams like the 2023 Nuggets and 2024 Celtics overcame injuries through system cohesion and star adaptability. Giannis, by contrast, often sticks to his strengths rather than adjusting to opponents’ schemes. His refusal to develop a reliable jumper or refine his play making limits Milwaukee’s ceiling, regardless of who’s on the roster.
Giannis Must Evolve and fans need to stop making up excuses for him
The “Giannis needs help” narrative is a convenient scapegoat that shifts focus from the real issue: Giannis’s own limitations are a significant driver of Milwaukee’s problems. His predictable play style, clutch-time struggles, and influence over team decisions create challenges that no amount of roster tinkering can fully resolve. While he’s a generational talent, Giannis must evolve—whether by developing a jumper, improving his free-throw shooting, or trusting his teammates more in crunch time—to maximize the Bucks’ potential.
The Bucks don’t need another superstar; they need Giannis to address the gaps in his game and adapt to modern NBA demands. Until then, the narrative that he “needs help” will persist, but it’s a distraction from the truth: Giannis is both the Bucks’ greatest asset and, at times, their biggest obstacle.
Stats and data referenced are accurate as of the 2024-25 NBA season and sourced from Basketball-Reference and NBA.com.
The Milwaukee Bucks, a team with championship aspirations anchored by Giannis Antetokounmpo, find themselves in a precarious position as the 2025 NBA postseason looms. Despite their talent, the Bucks’ ability to make significant trades during or after the postseason is severely constrained by a combination of financial restrictions, limited trade assets, and roster challenges.
The Salary Cap Straitjacket: Second Apron Restrictions
The Bucks’ financial situation is one of the primary roadblocks to executing trades. As of the 2025 NBA season, the Bucks are operating above the second apron of the salary cap, a threshold set at $188.931 million. Teams above this line face draconian restrictions under the NBA’s new CBA, designed to curb excessive spending by high-payroll teams. These restrictions include:
No Salary Aggregation: The Bucks cannot combine multiple players’ salaries to match the salary of an incoming player in a trade. This limits them to one-for-one player swaps or trading a single player for a package of lower-salaried players, severely narrowing their trade options. For example, trading for a high-salary star would require moving a single high-salary player like Damian Lillard or Brook Lopez, which is complicated by their value to the team and their contracts.
Limited Trade Flexibility: To regain the ability to aggregate salaries, the Bucks would need to shed approximately $6.499 million to get below the second apron. This is easier said than done, as it would likely involve trading a valuable player like Bobby Portis ($12.578 million) or Pat Connaughton ($9.423 million) without taking significant salary back, which is challenging given their limited trade assets.
Tax Penalties: As a taxpaying team for several years, the Bucks face a hefty luxury tax bill, which discourages adding salary through trades. Any move that increases their payroll would amplify this financial burden, making cost-neutral or cost-reducing trades a necessity.
The Bucks’ trade of Khris Middleton before the 2025 trade deadline, which brought them below the second apron, temporarily alleviated some restrictions by allowing salary aggregation in future trades. However, their payroll remains high, and they are still close to the second apron threshold, meaning any significant trade could push them back into restricted territory. This delicate balance limits their ability to pursue impactful players without shedding substantial salary first.
A Depleted Asset Cupboard
Even if the Bucks could navigate the salary cap restrictions, their lack of tradeable assets makes it difficult to construct appealing trade packages. The Bucks have been aggressive in recent years, trading away draft picks and young talent to build around Giannis. As a result, their asset pool is critically low:
Draft Picks: The Bucks have almost no draft capital to offer. They own only their 2031 first-round pick and second-round pick, with all other picks either traded or encumbered with swap rights. For instance, their 2028, 2029, and 2030 first-round picks were traded or swapped in the Damian Lillard deal. This scarcity makes it nearly impossible to sweeten trade offers, as draft picks are a primary currency in NBA trades.
Young Talent: The Bucks’ roster lacks young, high-upside players who could entice other teams. Their 2024 draft picks, AJ Johnson and Tyler Smith, are still developing and have not yet established themselves as valuable trade chips. MarJon Beauchamp, a 2022 first-round pick, was traded at the 2025 deadline, further depleting their pool of young talent. Without promising prospects, the Bucks struggle to offer long-term value in trades.
Tradeable Veterans: The Bucks’ most likely trade candidates are veterans like Bobby Portis and Pat Connaughton. Portis, with a $13.445 million player option for 2025-26, is a proven scorer but may not fetch a significant return due to his likely opt-out and the Bucks’ inability to attach picks. Connaughton, with a $9.423 million player option, is less appealing due to his declining production and the high cost (estimated at three to four second-round picks or a late first-rounder) to dump his contract. These players are useful but not game-changers in trade talks.
The lack of draft picks and young talent means the Bucks must rely on player-for-player swaps, which are difficult to execute when their tradeable players are either too valuable to the team (e.g., Lillard, Lopez) or not valuable enough to other teams (e.g., Connaughton).
Roster Challenges and Trade Feasibility
The Bucks’ current roster, while talented, presents additional hurdles for postseason trades. Their key players—Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, Brook Lopez, and Kyle Kuzma—are either untouchable or difficult to move for various reasons:
Giannis Antetokounmpo: As the franchise cornerstone and an MVP candidate, Giannis is not going anywhere unless he demands a trade, which would signal a complete rebuild. Posts on social media suggest growing pessimism about the Bucks’ future, with some fans speculating that a first-round exit could lead to a Giannis trade request. However, trading Giannis would be a last resort, not a postseason strategy, and would require an unprecedented return that the Bucks’ limited assets couldn’t match in a counter-trade.
Damian Lillard: Acquired in a blockbuster trade in 2023, Lillard’s fit with the Bucks has been underwhelming, and his recent health issues (blood clots in his calf) and suspected Achilles injury have diminished his trade value. His massive contract, which extends through 2026-27 at over $58 million per year, is a significant obstacle, especially given his age (34) and recent performance dip. Trading Lillard would likely require attaching assets the Bucks don’t have, making it an unlikely postseason move.
Brook Lopez: At 37, Lopez remains a valuable defensive anchor, but his $23 million expiring contract is a double-edged sword. While it could be used to match salaries in a trade, his age and the Bucks’ need for a center make him difficult to replace. Trading Lopez would require receiving a comparable big man in return, which complicates deal structures.
Kyle Kuzma: Acquired in the Middleton trade, Kuzma has underperformed, shooting a career-low 42% from the field and 28.1% from three. His $23 million contract, which runs through 2026-27, is a tough sell for other teams, especially given his poor fit with the Bucks’ current roster. Trading Kuzma so soon after acquiring him would be an admission of a failed trade, and his low trade value makes it unlikely to yield a significant upgrade.
The Bucks’ supporting cast, including Taurean Prince and Delon Wright, consists of minimum-salary players or veterans with limited trade appeal. This lack of depth and tradeable talent leaves the Bucks with few options to retool their roster without dismantling their core, which would undermine their championship aspirations.
The Middleton Trade: A Double-Edged Sword
The Bucks’ blockbuster trade of Khris Middleton at the 2025 trade deadline was a pivotal moment that both alleviated and exacerbated their trade challenges. In exchange for Middleton, rookie AJ Johnson, and a pick swap, the Bucks acquired Kyle Kuzma, Patrick Baldwin Jr., and a 2025 second-round pick from the Washington Wizards. This trade had significant implications:
Financial Relief: The trade brought the Bucks’ payroll below the second apron, granting them the ability to aggregate salaries in future trades. This was a critical step, as it removed the one-for-one trade restriction and opened up more deal structures.
Loss of a Key Contributor: Middleton, despite his injuries and declining play, was a proven playoff performer and Giannis’ longtime running mate. His departure left a void in shot-creation and clutch scoring, which Kuzma has failed to fill. The trade was seen as a disappointment by some analysts, who noted Middleton’s importance to the team’s postseason success.
Kuzma’s Poor Fit: Kuzma’s inefficient scoring and poor three-point shooting have made him a liability in Milwaukee’s system. His contract, while more manageable than Middleton’s, is still a challenge to trade due to his underwhelming performance.
While the Middleton trade provided some financial flexibility, it did not address the Bucks’ core issues—lack of draft picks, young talent, and roster depth. It also highlighted the difficulty of finding trade partners willing to take on the Bucks’ contracts without significant sweeteners, which Milwaukee cannot provide.
The NBA Trade Market and Postseason Timing
The timing of postseason trades adds another layer of complexity. The NBA trade deadline for the 2024-25 season was February 6, 2025, meaning any “postseason” trades would occur in the offseason (typically June to October). However, the Bucks’ ability to make impactful moves in this period is limited by the following market dynamics:
Competitive Trade Market: The 2025 trade market saw significant movement, with stars like Luka Dončić, Anthony Davis, and Jimmy Butler changing teams. The Bucks, lacking the assets to compete for such players, are at a disadvantage against teams like the Nets, who have cap flexibility and multiple first-round picks to pursue stars like Giannis if he becomes available.
Postseason Performance Pressure: The Bucks’ postseason success (or lack thereof) will heavily influence their trade strategy. A third consecutive first-round exit, as feared by some analysts, could force the Bucks to consider drastic moves, but their limited assets make it difficult to pivot without trading Giannis or Lillard. Posts on social media reflect this sentiment, with fans and analysts suggesting the Bucks have “no path forward” without trading Giannis.
Offseason Constraints: In the offseason, the Bucks could theoretically sign buyout players or make smaller trades, but the same financial and asset limitations apply. Teams above the second apron face restrictions on signing buyout players to more than $12.8 million, and the Bucks’ lack of roster spots and tradeable contracts limits their flexibility.
The Bucks’ inability to compete in a star-driven trade market, combined with their postseason performance pressure, makes it nearly impossible to execute game-changing trades without a major overhaul. Also quite importantly, other teams are looking for players that have proven themselves in the playoffs, not just regular season stat padders. Giannis , even in the extremely lucky championship run, cannot really claim to be a playoff monster any way you look at it.
Strategic Considerations and Alternatives
Given these constraints, the Bucks face a strategic dilemma. Here are the potential paths forward and why they are challenging:
Stand Pat: The Bucks could opt to run it back with their current core, hoping for better health and chemistry. However, their 48-34 record and fifth seed in the East, coupled with a disappointing playoff showing (down 0-2 to the Pacers), suggest this approach may not yield a championship.
Trade a Star: Trading Lillard or Lopez could free up salary and bring in new talent, but their contracts and recent performance make it difficult to find takers without attaching assets the Bucks don’t have. Trading Giannis would signal a rebuild, which is unlikely given the franchise’s commitment to contending. Also Giannis is a crowd pleaser and they may want to milk him as long as possible for that.
Small-Scale Moves: The Bucks could target low-cost veterans or buyout players, as they did with Delon Wright and Taurean Prince. However, these moves are unlikely to address their core issues—lack of athleticism, perimeter defense, and shot-creation—especially against elite Eastern Conference teams like the Celtics and Cavaliers. The gap is growing all the time, especially since Giannis doesn’t seem able to improve his game in terms of individual skills or teamwork.
Draft and Develop: With limited trade options, the Bucks could focus on developing AJ Johnson and Tyler Smith, but these players are years away from making a significant impact. The Bucks’ lack of draft picks also hampers this strategy.
Each path is fraught with challenges, underscoring the near-impossibility of making impactful postseason trades without a major shift in strategy or an unexpected windfall (e.g., a team willing to take on Kuzma or Connaughton without significant compensation).
Giannis is the key…and the cause of the problems
The Milwaukee Bucks’ hopes of making significant postseason trades in 2025 are dashed by a perfect storm of financial restrictions, depleted assets, and roster challenges. The NBA’s second apron rules handcuff their ability to aggregate salaries, their lack of draft picks and young talent limits their trade appeal, and their high-salary veterans are either too valuable to trade or not valuable enough to fetch a meaningful return. The Middleton trade, while providing some flexibility, has not solved their core issues, and the competitive trade market further diminishes their chances of landing a game-changer. As the Bucks face a critical postseason, their path to improvement lies more in internal growth and minor tweaks than in blockbuster trades—a sobering reality for a team with championship ambitions.
Giannis has demanded a lot of moves both in coaches and players. After saying he won it “the right way” and claiming it was no “superteam” (even though it clearly was) he proceeded to try and make a superteam while at the same time showing no flexibility or basketball IQ in order to gel a team together. He has focused on his personal stats and promotion while destroying the trade value of everyone else on his team. So he has put himself in a hole: leave the team he has ruined for the future or stay and play the lone superhero on a team that keeps losing?
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks’ superstar and two-time NBA MVP, has been the subject of trade rumours for many years, more so lately as the Bucks navigate inconsistent playoff performances. However, as the 2025 NBA off-season approaches, it’s highly unlikely that Giannis will be traded. This narrative is actually to Giannis’ liking. He is put up as the role model superhero and the rest of the roster constantly attacked. Either the roster or the coach. It’s never Giannis’ fault, is it? Well actually…
1. Giannis’ Reluctance to Leave His Comfort Zone
Giannis has spent his entire NBA career with the Milwaukee Bucks since being drafted in 2013. Milwaukee is more than just a team for him—it’s home. He’s built a life there, raising his family and becoming a beloved figure in the community. The idea of moving to a new city, adapting to a new franchise, and dealing with the pressures of a different fanbase could be daunting. Unlike some players who thrive on change, Giannis has shown a deep loyalty to Milwaukee, signing a supermax extension in 2020 despite the team’s postseason struggles at the time.
This loyalty stems partly from fear of the unknown. Playing for another team would mean stepping out of a system tailored to his strengths and into an environment where he might face greater scrutiny. The Bucks have provided him with stability, from coaching staff to teammates, which has allowed him to focus on his game without the distractions of a larger market. A trade to a team like the Los Angeles Lakers or Miami Heat would thrust him into a media frenzy, something Giannis has largely avoided in Milwaukee. You just need to see him in the All Star situations to understand that he is socially inept, in fact he never trains with other NBA stars in the off season. His hesitance to embrace such a shift makes a trade less likely, as he’d need to be fully on board for any deal to gain traction.
2. Questions About Giannis’ Skill Set and Basketball IQ
While Giannis is undeniably one of the NBA’s most dominant players, his game has limitations that raise questions about his ability to seamlessly fit into another team’s system. His skill set is heavily reliant on a specific style of play that the Bucks have perfected around him. And you won’t find many other teams willing to do something similar.
Limited Outside Shooting
Giannis’ lack of a consistent outside shot remains a glaring weakness. In the 2024-25 season, he’s shooting just 29.3% from three-point range on low volume, per NBA.com stats. The Bucks have built their offence to maximise his drives to the basket, surrounding him with shooters like Damian Lillard and Brook Lopez to space the floor. Other teams might not have the personnel or patience to accommodate a superstar who clogs the paint and struggles in catch-and-shoot situations. For example, a team like the Golden State Warriors, which thrives on motion and perimeter shooting, would struggle to integrate Giannis without overhauling its identity.
Basketball IQ and Playmaking
Giannis’ basketball IQ has also been a point of contention. While he’s an excellent decision-maker in transition and a willing passer (averaging 6.5 assists per game in 2024-25), his ability to read complex half-court defenses is inconsistent. The Bucks’ system simplifies his role: he’s often the primary ball-handler in pick-and-rolls or iso situations, with clear reads provided by coaching. On another team, he might be asked to play off the ball or make quicker decisions in a motion offense, areas where he’s shown limitations. His turnover rate (3.2 per game) suggests he can struggle under pressure, and a new system could exacerbate this. Giannis simply cannot understand, let alone execute, complex plays. He can’t screen and he doesn’t understand angles.
Comparison to Other Stars
Contrast Giannis with players like Kevin Durant or LeBron James, who have thrived in multiple systems due to their versatility. Durant’s shooting and off-ball movement make him plug-and-play, while LeBron’s elite IQ allows him to orchestrate any offense. Giannis, however, is more system-dependent, and teams considering a trade would need to rebuild their roster around him—a risky proposition given the assets they’d surrender.
3. The Bucks’ Unique Accommodations
The Bucks have gone to great lengths to cater to Giannis’ needs, creating an environment that maximizes his comfort and performance. These accommodations, which range from roster construction to off-court support, are unlikely to be replicated elsewhere.
Roster Built Around Giannis
The Bucks have prioritized players who complement Giannis’ game. Acquiring Damian Lillard in 2023 was a clear move to give Giannis a co-star who could handle playmaking duties and stretch the floor. Role players like Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez were perfect fits, providing shooting and defensive support. Other teams might not have the cap space or assets to build a similar supporting cast, especially after giving up draft picks and young talent to acquire Giannis in a trade.
Coaching and System
Coach Doc Rivers has tailored the Bucks’ system to Giannis’ strengths, emphasising transition opportunities and simple half-court sets. The coaching staff understands his limitations and designs game plans to hide them, such as avoiding late-game situations where his free-throw shooting (61.8% in 2024-25) could be exploited. A new team might demand more versatility, exposing his weaknesses in ways Milwaukee has carefully avoided. Giannis knows this and is extremely hesitant to be publicly exposed like that.
Off-Court Support
Off the court, the Bucks treat Giannis like royalty. From personalized training regimens to family support, the organization has ensured he feels valued and secure. Reports from ESPN indicate that Giannis has a close relationship with the front office, which consults him on major decisions. This level of influence is rare for a player, and it’s unlikely another team would grant him the same autonomy. For example, a franchise like the New York Knicks, known for its intense media pressure and hands-on ownership, might not offer the same level of personal attention.
4. The Bucks’ Commitment to Giannis
Beyond Giannis’ own hesitations and limitations, the Bucks have little incentive to trade him. He’s the face of the franchise, a global icon, and a key driver of revenue through ticket sales and merchandise. Trading him would signal a rebuild, something the Bucks, fresh off a 2021 championship, are unlikely to embrace. The front office has shown a willingness to tweak the roster—such as trading Jrue Holiday for Lillard—to keep Giannis happy and competitive.
Moreover, Giannis’ contract, a five-year, $228 million deal running through 2028, gives the Bucks leverage. He has a player option in 2027, meaning there’s no immediate pressure to trade him. Any team acquiring Giannis would need to offer a massive package, likely including multiple All-Stars and draft picks, which few franchises can afford without gutting their roster. The Bucks would rather continue building around him than start over.
5. Who even wants him anymore?
Some argue that Giannis could thrive elsewhere, pointing to his work ethic. However, incremental improvements may not be enough to justify a trade to a team expecting instant chemistry. More importantly no other super star would want to play with him unless they are really desperate like Lillard was. His public comments emphasise loyalty. In a February 2025 press conference, he said, “Milwaukee is my home. I want to win here.” This sentiment, combined with the Bucks’ efforts to contend, makes a trade improbable. We have written about this before here and his trade value keeps falling.
Giannis ain’t going nowhere (again)
Giannis Antetokounmpo is unlikely to be traded this off-season due to a combination of personal, professional, and organizational factors. His apprehension about leaving Milwaukee, coupled with questions about his adaptability to new systems, makes him a risky fit for other teams. The Bucks’ tailored accommodations—both on and off the court—further cement his place in Milwaukee. While trade rumours will persist, Giannis and the Bucks are too deeply intertwined for a split in 2025. For now, the Greek Freak remains the heart of Milwaukee, and that’s unlikely to change. The Bucks’ marketing will keep hyping him up, coaches will come and go, roster changes all the time, he will keep stat padding and breaking records. But forget any aspirations for the playoffs.
A persistent critique among fans, analysts, and even some players is that officiating tends to favor Giannis, overlooking violations that stem from his aggressive style and, some argue, a lack of refined skill in certain areas.
Giannis’s “Unique Playing Style”
To understand the officiating debate, we first need to unpack Giannis’s approach to the game. Unlike traditional superstars who rely on jump-shooting finesse (think Kevin Durant) or guard-like ball-handling (like Kyrie Irving), Giannis thrives on physicality. His game is built around bulldozing drives to the rim, leveraging his length and athleticism to finish through contact. He averages over 30 points per game in recent seasons, with a significant chunk coming from paint scoring and free throws—often 10-12 attempts per game.
This style, while undeniably effective, invites scrutiny. Critics argue that Giannis’s reliance on power over precision leads to violations that referees either miss or choose to ignore. And worse still, they try to justify it as some sort of “new” style, or “unique” approach. It just ain’t basketball.
The Traveling Debate
One of the loudest complaints about Giannis is his alleged traveling. Social media platforms frequently highlight clips of Giannis taking what appear to be extra steps during his drives. A typical sequence involves him gathering the ball mid-stride, taking two or three long steps, and then launching toward the rim. Per NBA rules, a player can take two steps after gathering the ball, but Giannis’s strides are so massive that they can look like more. Giannis does often travel any way you interpret the rules. But he hardly ever gets called for it.
For example, during a 2023 playoff game against the Miami Heat, a viral clip showed Giannis driving from the top of the key, appearing to take four steps before dunking. Fans cried foul, but no call was made. The reality is murkier: slow-motion replays often reveal that his gather step aligns with the rule, but the sheer length of his strides creates an optical illusion. Still, referees rarely call traveling on him, which fuels perceptions of leniency. Data from the NBA’s Last Two Minute (L2M) reports shows traveling calls are down league-wide—only 0.3 per game in clutch situations—suggesting this isn’t unique to Giannis but part of a broader officiating trend. Giannis travels obviously and in your face very often no matter how you choose to interpret a gather step. He palms the ball and all sorts of other rare violations because he never learnt how to handle the ball as a kid. He started late in life and just lacks the instincts.
Offensive Fouls and Physicality
Another sore point is Giannis’s physicality on offense. Critics argue he initiates contact as much as defenders do, yet he’s rarely called for offensive fouls. His signature Euro-step or shoulder-lowering drives often see him barreling into defenders, who end up on the floor while Giannis gets the and-one call. In the 2021 Finals against the Phoenix Suns, Deandre Ayton visibly struggled to defend Giannis without fouling out, while Giannis averaged 35.2 points and 11.4 free-throw attempts per game. It is plain dangerous and unsportsmanlike yet his fans see it as “dominance” instead of what it truly is: technical foul level lack of ability to change direction even if the defender is in a legal position.
Statistically, Giannis is called for offensive fouls sparingly—about 0.8 per game in the 2022-23 season, compared to 3.1 personal fouls drawn. Compare this to someone like Nikola Jokić, who averages 1.2 offensive fouls despite a less aggressive driving style. The disparity raises questions: Referees are obviously hesitant to penalise Giannis’s physicality because it’s his hallmark.
Some argue this reflects a skill gap. Unlike players with polished post moves or pull-up jumpers, Giannis leans heavily on momentum and strength. When finesse isn’t an option, contact becomes inevitable, and referees seem to give him the benefit of the doubt. Social media posts often highlight this, with users joking that Giannis’s “skill” is “running through people and getting away with it.”
Free-Throw Violations: A Technicality Overlooked?
A less discussed but notable issue is Giannis’s free-throw routine. NBA rules require shooters to attempt their free throw within 10 seconds of receiving the ball. Giannis routinely pushes this limit, often taking 12-14 seconds as he goes through an elaborate routine. In the 2021 playoffs, fans in Brooklyn famously counted down his routine, and referees began enforcing the rule sporadically, calling violations a handful of times.
Yet, league-wide, these calls remain rare. In the 2022-23 season, only 15 free-throw violations were called across all players, per NBA officiating logs. Giannis’s slow routine disrupts game flow, and critics see it as another area where referees cut him slack. While not a “skill” issue per se, it’s a technical violation that could be enforced more consistently.
Why the Perception of Favoritism?
So, why do fans and analysts feel Giannis gets preferential treatment? Several factors are at play:
Star Treatment: The NBA has long been criticized for giving superstars leeway. Giannis benefits from a reality where referees hesitate to call ticky-tack fouls that could derail a marquee player’s impact. Giannis, as a global icon, fits this mould.
Physicality Bias: The league’s shift toward freedom of movement has made referees more lenient on contact, especially for players like Giannis who thrive in the paint. L2M reports show that “no-calls” on physical plays are up 20% since 2018, reflecting a broader tolerance.
Skill vs. Athleticism Narrative: The critique that Giannis lacks “skill” is pervasive. His limited jump shot (29% from three in 2022-23) and reliance on drives feed a narrative that he’s a one-dimensional player who needs officiating help to dominate. This however is absolutely true. Giannis is a one trick pony and – worse still – he is predictable.
Highlight Culture: Social media amplifies scrutiny. Every missed call on Giannis becomes a viral clip, while similar no-calls for others (like Joel Embiid’s elbow-heavy post-ups) get less attention. Social media users often share side-by-side comparisons, like Giannis’s drives versus James Harden’s travels, to argue inconsistency.
Calling every potential violation would bog down games. If referees whistled every possible travel or offensive foul Gianniswould spend half the game on the bench. The NBA’s emphasis on flow benefits Giannis.
The Bigger Picture
The officiating debate around Giannis isn’t just about him—it’s about the NBA’s evolving standards. The league wants high-scoring, fast-paced games, and that means letting physicality slide more than in the hand-check era of the 1990s. Giannis, as a player who embodies this shift, becomes a lightning rod for criticism. His violations, real or perceived, aren’t unique; they’re amplified by his dominance and the spotlight he commands.
Does officiating “considerably help” Giannis?
The evidence suggests he benefits from leniency, particularly on travelling and offensive fouls. Are violations overlooked due to a “lack of skill”? That’s harsher—Giannis’s game prioritises athleticism over finesse, but that’s a choice, not a flaw. The truth lies in the gray area: He plays on the edge of the rules, and referees, like fans, are often too captivated to blow the whistle. The NBA has created the Giannis myth precisely by allowing him to break the rules consistently and officials are now used to it. In playoff situations this is for sure under greater scrutiny however. At 30 Giannis is not developing any new skills and has not become any more nuanced in his game. If anything he is worse, relying more than ever on rim finishes.
I expect this topic to come up more and more. On the one hand Giannis is less and less relevant to the NBA when it matters as he is no longer a playoff factor. Also teams have figured out how to neutralise him even with the officiating help he gets. But the difference between the Giannis myth and the hard reality is that he would not score half as much if the refs were officiating him properly.
Despite his dominance, the Greek Freak’s game—and personality—might be quietly pushing away the kind of top-tier talent that could elevate the Milwaukee Bucks into a dynasty. Why? Well he is running out of excuses, always blaming the coaching staff, roster or anything else but himself.
Low Basketball IQ: The Elephant in the Room
Giannis is a physical marvel, no question. He can bulldoze through defences like a runaway train, but when the game slows down, cracks start to show. Playoff series have exposed his limited decision-making under pressure. Too often, he forces drives into crowded lanes, telegraphing moves that savvy defences—like the 2021 Heat or 2022 Celtics—turned into brick walls. His passing? Rudimentary at best. He’s not reading the floor like a LeBron or a Jokić, who can dissect a defense with surgical precision. Superstars want a co-star who elevates their game, not one who barrels ahead with tunnel vision. Giannis’s freelancing might work in the regular season, but in the clutch, it’s a liability.
A . Selfish Play in a Team Sport
For all his talk about “team first,” Giannis’s on-court habits tell a different story. He dominates the ball, often holding it too long while teammates stand around waiting for something—anything—to happen. Watch a Bucks game, and you’ll see Khris Middleton or Jrue Holiday (when he was there) relegated to spot-up shooters, their rhythm disrupted by Giannis’s one-man show. Superstars like Damian Lillard—who eventually joined him—or even hypothetical partners like Kevin Durant thrive on flow and synergy. Giannis? He’s a vortex, sucking up possessions and leaving little room for others to shine. Who wants to sign up for that?
B . Stat-Padding Over Winning
Let’s talk numbers. Giannis’s stat lines are gaudy—30 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists sound great on paper. But dig into the tape, and you’ll see empty calories. Late in blowouts, he’s still hunting for points instead of resting or letting role players eat. Free-throw trips pile up not because he’s unstoppable, but because he’s predictable—defences know he’ll charge the rim, so they foul. It’s great for the box score, but it doesn’t scream “winning basketball.” Superstars notice that stuff. They want a partner obsessed with titles, not triple-doubles.
C . The Pampered Superstar Syndrome
Giannis gets the kid-gloves treatment, and it’s starting to grate. The Bucks cater to his every whim—building rosters around his strengths, excusing his weaknesses (like that jumper that’s still a work in progress after a decade). The media fawns over his “humble” persona, ignoring how he’s dodged accountability for playoff flops. Remember 2020 against Miami? Or 2022 against Boston? Where was the introspection? Superstars like Anthony Davis or Jayson Tatum have had to grind through criticism and adapt. Giannis? He’s cocooned in Milwaukee’s bubble, and that entitlement vibe doesn’t sit well with peers who’ve had to scrap for respect.
4 . The Bucks’ One-Man Show Isn’t a Draw
Milwaukee isn’t exactly a free-agent paradise—small market, cold winters—but pair a transcendent talent with a winning culture, and players will come. Look at LeBron in Cleveland or Durant in Brooklyn. Giannis hasn’t created that pull. Even with a ring in 2021, the narrative persists: that was more about injuries to opponents (Kyrie and Harden hobbled) than Giannis building a juggernaut. Superstars want to join a system, not a solo act. Right now, the Bucks feel like Giannis plus spare parts, not a cohesive unit worth betting on. And Giannis’ skillset is looking more and more pathetic as time goes by. He is shooting the worse 3 in the history of the NBA, his free throws are worse than ever in his career and his mid range is non existent when it counts.
So what now?
Basketball is a team game, and the best players amplify those around them. Right now, Giannis’s style—low-IQ bulldozing, selfish tendencies, stat-chasing, and a pampered aura—makes him a tough sell for superstars looking to share the spotlight. Could he change? Sure. A better jumper, sharper playmaking, and some humility might turn the tide. Until then, don’t expect the league’s elite to line up for a Milwaukee ticket. The Greek Freak might be flying solo for a while. I would guess he will stay in Milwaukee because:
He is scared of going somewhere else and failing again.
He is too used to the pampered life with the Bucks.
He likes the narrative of being the only one on the team worth anything.
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.
Khris Middleton and Giannis Antetokounmpo thrived together because their skills complemented each other perfectly on the court, creating a dynamic partnership that fueled the Milwaukee Bucks’ success. Middleton’s versatility as a scorer, particularly his ability to shoot from outside and handle the ball, paired seamlessly with Giannis’s dominance inside and relentless drives to the basket. While Giannis drew defensive attention with his physicality and playmaking, Middleton capitalized on the space created, knocking down jumpers or making smart plays in clutch moments. Their chemistry wasn’t just about stats—it was built on trust and Khris’ willingness to sacrifice for the team.
Over their 12 years together, they developed an intuitive understanding, often seen in how Giannis would find Middleton for open looks or how Middleton could steady the offense when Giannis faced heavy pressure. Middleton’s calm, methodical style balanced Giannis’s explosive energy, making them a tough duo to defend. Their bond grew from early battles for minutes into a partnership that delivered a championship in 2021, with Middleton’s 40-point Finals game showcasing how important he was for the team. (Giannis’ 50 point performance was secondary, the series had already been decided.) Injuries and time might’ve limited their peak, but their on-court fit was a big reason they clicked so well.
Let’s break down why Khris Middleton and Giannis Antetokounmpo worked so well together by digging deeper into their on-court synergy, individual skill sets, statistical impact, and the evolution of their partnership with the Milwaukee Bucks.
Complementary Skill Sets
Giannis is a force of nature—6’11”, with a freakish blend of speed, power, and length. His game thrives on attacking the rim, where he’s averaged double-digit free-throw attempts in multiple seasons (e.g., 10.3 per game in 2020-21) and consistently posted field-goal percentages above 55% by living in the paint. Defenses often collapse on him, especially in the half-court, using walls or double-teams to limit his drives. That’s where Middleton’s skill set becomes the perfect counterpunch.
Middleton, at 6’7”, is a polished wing with a smooth mid-range game and reliable three-point shooting (career 38.8% from deep). Unlike Giannis, whose outside shot has been a work in progress (29.2% career from three…and falling fast this season), Middleton excels at spacing the floor. Defenders can’t sag off him, which prevents them from clogging the lane entirely against Giannis. Middleton’s ability to score off the catch or create his own shot—averaging around 20 points per game in their prime years together—gave the Bucks a secondary option who could punish teams for overcommitting to Giannis. Think of games like Game 4 of the 2021 Finals: Middleton dropped 40 points, including 10 in the fourth, while Giannis still drew the defense’s focus.
What has changed since then? Well , the league now knows Giannis is a one trick pony and often just one determined defender can neutralize him when it counts. But Giannis is more of a ball hog than ever, more focused on stat padding and less of a team player than ever.
Pick-and-Roll and Off-Ball Dynamics
Their two-man game was lethal, especially in pick-and-roll or hand-off situations. Giannis often acted as the screener or roller, using his size and athleticism to either dive to the rim or pop out for a pass. Have you see just how badly he screens for Dame? It is a joke, Giannis is now measureably one of the worse screeners in the NBA.
Middleton’s ball-handling (averaging 4-5 assists per game in peak seasons) and decision-making let him exploit the chaos Giannis caused. If the defense switched, Middleton could isolate smaller guards with his post-up game (he’s sneaky good at this, with a 1.05 points-per-possession efficiency in the post per Synergy data from past seasons). If they doubled Giannis, Middleton relocated for open threes or attacked closeouts with his underrated first step. What has changed? Giannis simply can’t cause the same amount of chaos. Dame gets a last second terrible desperation pass most of the time.
Off the ball, Giannis’s gravity used to pull defenders inward, while Middleton’s movement kept offenses honest. Middleton wasn’t a standstill shooter—he’d cut, flare, or use off-ball screens to find gaps. Their 2020-21 title run showed this: Giannis’s usage rate hovered around 32%, yet Middleton’s true shooting percentage stayed above 57%, proving he thrived without needing the ball constantly.
Statistical Symbiosis
Lineup data backs up their impact. In the 2020-21 season, Bucks lineups with both Giannis and Middleton on the floor outscored opponents by 8.7 points per 100 possessions, per NBA.com stats. Their net rating together often topped the team’s overall mark, reflecting how they amplified each other. Middleton’s presence boosted Giannis’s assist numbers—Giannis averaged 5-6 assists in their best years, with many going to Middleton on kick-outs or dump-offs. Conversely, Giannis’s rim pressure inflated Middleton’s effective field-goal percentage, as he feasted on cleaner looks.
Clutch Chemistry
In high-stakes moments, their trust shone brightest. Middleton’s ice-cold demeanor paired with Giannis’s ferocity gave Milwaukee a dual-threat late-game attack. Look at the 2021 playoffs: Middleton averaged 23.6 points on 43.8% shooting, stepping up when Giannis faced injury (like in the Nets series) or foul trouble. Middleton’s buzzer-beater in Game 1 vs. Miami, we all know he will deliver when it matters.
Evolution and Fit
Their partnership wasn’t instant. Middleton arrived in 2013 via trade from Detroit, a year before Giannis was drafted. Early on, they competed for touches under Jason Kidd, with Middleton as the steadier scorer and Giannis the raw prospect. As Giannis blossomed into an MVP (2019, 2020), Middleton adapted, ceding the spotlight while refining his role as the Robin to Giannis’s Batman. Coach Mike Budenholzer’s system—emphasizing pace, space, and Giannis as a point-forward—unlocked their potential. Middleton’s willingness to play off Giannis, rather than demand equal usage, cemented their fit.
But this is not a Doc Rivers mistake. He is doing the best he can with Giannis and carefully studied the way the Greek national team coach – Spanoullis- used him in the Olympics for ideas. He tries to keep Giannis out in the fourth quarter as much as possible. But you can’t teach a low IQ player like Giannis new tricks.
Intangibles
Beyond stats, their personalities meshed. Giannis’s relentless drive paired with Middleton’s quiet confidence created a yin-yang dynamic. They shared a work ethic—Middleton grinding from a second-round pick to All-Star, Giannis from a skinny unknown to MVP—and a team-first mindset. Post-game interviews often showed mutual respect, like Giannis calling Middleton “the head of the snake” after big nights. That bond held through injuries (Middleton’s knee issues, Giannis’s ankle scares) and carried them to the 2021 title.
In short, Khris played so well with Giannis because their games were puzzle pieces—Middleton’s finesse filled the gaps in Giannis’s brute-force style, and their trust turned individual brilliance into a championship formula. But Giannis changed. As it became apparent that the ring winning was a fluke he became poisoned by his own hype machine. The MVP chants in the Bucks’ arena went to his head. He truly believed he was the only one carrying the team even though in fact, he is the reason they lose.
To make it worse the fans turned on Khris, only increasing the pressure. Placing more emphasis on regular season games and only seeing Giannis points/rebounds/assists because that is what the Bucks’ marketing team kept promoting. Giannis the superhero. And this is where it got them. A dead end.
Damian Lillard’s performance dipping when Giannis Antetokounmpo is on the floor isn’t a straightforward “he’s worse” situation—it’s more about fit, usage, and how their games mesh (or don’t) on the Milwaukee Bucks as of February 26, 2025. Lillard joined the Bucks in 2023 to pair with Giannis, forming a superstar duo. Yeah, remember Giannis shouting about “winning it the right way” and not wanting to be part of a superteam? Well the on-court results have shown some serious lack of basketball IQ on Giannis’ part. Let’s break down why Lillard’s numbers and impact tend to take a hit when sharing the court with Giannis, based on stats, playstyle clashes, and team context.
We all know that Dame was Giannis’ choice. As was losing Jrue. As was trading Khris. So let’s take a closer look at the first of these three wrong decisions.
First, look at the numbers this season. Lillard’s averaging 25.8 points, 7.2 assists, and 4.5 rebounds overall, with a 42.9% field goal percentage and 35.8% from three. But in lineups with Giannis, his scoring drops slightly—per NBA advanced stats, Lillard’s usage rate falls from 31.2% when Giannis is off to around 27% when they’re together. Giannis, a ball-dominant force (32.7 points, 11.7 rebounds, 6.2 assists), commands the offense with a 33.8% usage rate. Both thrive with the ball in their hands—Lillard as a pick-and-roll maestro, Giannis as a freight train in transition and the paint. (And I am not using the term “freight train” in a positive way here. He misses way too many at the rim, waaay too many free throws and he ruins the flow by playing like that. )
When they share the floor, Lillard often cedes primary creation duties, shifting to more off-ball roles like spot-up shooting, which isn’t his natural strength. Let’s re think that, eh? The experienced ball handler cedes to the forward that leads in travelling and other violations…
Their playstyles amplify this. Lillard’s elite skill is his deep-range shooting and ability to break down defenses in isolation or pick-and-roll sets—he’s historically taken 30+ footers and orchestrated late-game possessions. Giannis, meanwhile, clogs the paint and excels driving downhill, but his lack of a reliable jumper (20% from three this year) lets defenses sag off him, shrinking the floor. Opponents build a “wall” against Giannis, packing the lane, which can cramp Lillard’s driving lanes and force him into contested mid-range shots or kickouts. Cleaning the Glass data shows the Bucks’ offensive rating drops to 114.2 with both on, compared to 117.8 with Lillard alone—suggesting less efficiency together.
Spacing is a big culprit. Giannis’s presence draws double-teams inside, but without consistent outside shooting from him, defenses don’t respect the Bucks’ perimeter as much. Lillard’s three-point attempts per game are down to 8.2 this season from 10.5 in his last Portland year, and his catch-and-shoot opportunities haven’t fully clicked—his effective field goal percentage on threes dips from 58% solo to 54% with Giannis, per Second Spectrum tracking. Milwaukee’s supporting cast (like Brook Lopez or Khris Middleton) helps, but the lack of synergy between the stars leaves Lillard less room to operate his preferred game.
Defensively, it’s not a huge factor, but it’s worth noting. Lillard, at 6’2” and 34 years old, isn’t a lockdown guy—he’s targeted in switches, averaging 0.7 steals but often a step slow. Pairing them means opponents attack Lillard, pulling Giannis into help situations that can disrupt their rhythm. This doesn’t directly make Lillard “worse” offensively, but it tires him out, potentially sapping his scoring punch.
Then there’s the adjustment factor. In Portland, Lillard was the unquestioned alpha, running 35-40 minutes of heliocentric offense. With Giannis, he’s adapting to a co-star role under coach Doc Rivers, who leans heavily on Giannis’s physicality. It is hard not to emphasize the hole that the Bucks have dug themselves into by promoting Giannis as the ultimate MVP player all the time. The pressure on Dame is unfair and constant from day one.
Lillard’s assist numbers creep up with Giannis (7.5 vs. 6.8 without), showing he’s facilitating more, but his scoring efficiency takes a hit—true shooting percentage drops from 60.1% solo to 57.8% together. He’s less comfortable deferring or playing second fiddle, especially when Giannis’s freight-train drives don’t always set up Lillard’s preferred catch-and-shoot looks. All too often Giannis simply gets caught up in traffic and makes a bad desperation pass with no clock left and every opponent 100% certain that Dame has to take that shot.
Contrast this with Giannis’s prior pairing with Khris Middleton, a better spacer (38.5% from three this year) who complemented Giannis by stretching defenses without needing the ball as much. Lillard’s ball-dominant style overlaps with Giannis’s, and neither is a natural off-ball mover like a Steph Curry. Fans often point this out—some argue Lillard looks “lost” or “disengaged” when Giannis dominates, a sentiment echoed in games like their February 25 loss to Houston, where Lillard shot 5-for-14 with Giannis on.
It’s not that Lillard’s inherently worse with Giannis—it’s that their strengths haven’t fully synced. Lillard’s at his best creating in space; Giannis consumes space. Until the Bucks tweak their scheme—more stagger minutes, better spacing lineups, or Lillard embracing off-ball movement—the numbers and eye test suggest he’s less effective in this tandem than he could be alone.
For me the biggest problem is how everyone treats Dame. As if Giannis is too sacred to criticise. It is always Dame’s fault if the Bucks lose. This is inaccurate and unfair. Dame has regretted being traded for sure as he is wasting his last good years on a team that clearly cannot work with a Giannis who lacks the IQ to change.
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.
Grok3 has an interesting and very valid summary of stuff I have been writing about elsewhere regarding Giannis in the playoffs:
“Limited Outside Shooting: Giannis isn’t a consistent threat from beyond the arc. His three-point shooting has improved over the years, but it’s still not elite (career 28.6% as of the 2023-24 season). Defenses often sag off him, daring him to shoot from deep.
Free-Throw Struggles: His free-throw percentage hovers around 70% (career 70.2% through 2023-24), which is decent but not great for a star player. In high-pressure situations, like the playoffs, this can be a liability—teams may exploit it with intentional fouls.
Reliance on Physicality: Giannis thrives on his size, strength, and athleticism to dominate drives and finishes at the rim. If he faces physical defenses or loses a step as he ages, his effectiveness could dip unless he diversifies his game further.
Playmaking Limitations: While he’s a solid passer for a big man (career 5.0 assists per game), he’s not a primary ball-handler or elite playmaker like LeBron James or Nikola Jokić. His assist numbers often come from straightforward reads rather than complex orchestration.
Post Game Needs Refinement: Despite his size (6’11”), Giannis doesn’t have a polished low-post game with a variety of moves. He relies more on power and quickness than finesse or footwork in the paint.
Defensive Versatility Has Limits: He’s an elite defender—capable of guarding 1 through 5 in spurts and a former Defensive Player of the Year (2019-20)—but he’s not always lockdown against smaller, quicker guards or sharpshooting wings due to his size.
Predictable Drives: Giannis often attacks the basket with a head-down, euro-step-heavy style. Savvy defenses (e.g., the “Wall” strategy used by the Raptors in 2019) can clog the paint and force him to kick out or take tougher shots.
Injury Concerns: His aggressive, physical style has led to occasional injuries, like knee and ankle issues. While he’s generally durable, his long-term health could be a question as he enters his 30s (he turned 30 in December 2024).”
It is interesting how Grok also takes issue with a matter most choose to disregard when evaluating Giannis. And that is his massive performance drop off in high pressure situations. Here is what Grok says:
“Giannis Antetokounmpo’s playoff performance has been a mixed bag, and it’s a hot topic among fans and analysts. While he’s undeniably a regular-season juggernaut—two MVPs and a Defensive Player of the Year award—his postseason play has drawn criticism for not always matching that dominance. Let’s break it down based on how he’s performed and the recurring knocks against him in the playoffs.
One big critique is his efficiency—or lack thereof—when the stakes get higher. Take the 2022 Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Celtics: Giannis put up monster stats (33.9 points, 14.7 rebounds, 7.1 assists per game), but his shooting splits were rough—49.1% from the field and 67.9% from the free-throw line. He became the first player to notch 200 points, 100 rebounds, and 50 assists in a single series, yet the Bucks lost in seven games. Critics point to his 45.7% field goal percentage in that series (down from his regular-season norm) and argue he was more of a volume scorer than an efficient one, especially with Khris Middleton sidelined.
Then there’s the free-throw issue. Giannis has never been a sharpshooter from the line, and it’s bitten him in the playoffs. In the 2023 first-round upset against the Heat, he shot 15-for-23 (65.2%) in the two games he played before a back injury knocked him out. Miami exploited this, and the Bucks crashed out as the No. 1 seed. His career playoff free-throw percentage sits at 66.2% (through 2023-24), compared to 70.2% in the regular season—small drop, big moments.
His style of play also gets exposed when teams build a “wall” to stop his drives. The 2019 Raptors famously used this tactic in the Eastern Conference Finals, holding Giannis to 41.5% shooting and 12.3 points per game in the final four games (all losses after a 2-0 lead). Similarly, the Heat in 2020 limited his impact, and Miami took that series 4-1. Defenses collapse on him, and without a reliable jumper—he’s at 27.6% from three in the playoffs career-wise—he can struggle to create space or punish teams from outside.
Injuries have also played a role, though not entirely his fault. He missed most of the 2023 Heat series with a bruised back and sat out the entire 2024 first-round loss to the Pacers with a calf strain. The Bucks went 0-5 in playoff games he’s played since May 11, 2022 (Game 5 vs. Boston), fueling the narrative that he’s faltering when it counts. Without him, Milwaukee actually won 3 of 8 in those stretches, which raises questions about team construction as much as his play.
So, does he play “badly” in the playoffs? When he’s off, it’s magnified—shooting dips, turnovers spike (4.0 per game career playoff average), and teams dare him to beat them from deep or the line. “
After more than a decade in the NBA, the AI makes valid points. Giannis once reached the ring and failed terribly every other year.
Is Giannis requesting a trade? Will he be goat? Will he win another ring? This is what people are asking Google. But then they also seem to very often ask “is Giannis injured” and “will he be playing tonight?”
The Warriors have often been suggested as a potential trade target for Giannis. This reflects in Google searches. But not in reality.
People love to play the “what if” game, imagining some sort of ultra team which would include their favorite players. Here is why Giannis will stay with the Warriors forever though:
He has said so many times. This is the weakest of arguments. He may well be saying one thing officially but simultaneously allowing rumours to spread.
He has made a big thing in the past about not joining ‘superteams’. Again he has backpedalled on this one, getting Lillard for starters. So doesn’t seem very valid.
The Bucks have no incentive to make a trade. Why on earth would they ever allow it? So essentially he would have to ask for it. After all he has said about loving it there and the people and the city etc. Again, this is possible.
So the commonly used reasons are weak. Here are the more realistic problems with Giannis going to another NBA team:
4. He would have to pick a championship contender. Which current championship contender would even be able to combine Giannis in their roster though? Nobody! Here are the current bookie favourites for 2024-25 NBA Championship Odds:
5. Giannis can’t play that kind of ball! Celtics, Thunder, Cavaliers, Nuggets rely on fast moving, extremely technical tactical basketball. Giannis knows one kind of game, the one where he brings the ball down and tries to dunk. They don’t need that, they don’t want that, he could not possibly fit with any of those teams. He lacks the speed of thought and the ability to understand advanced plays and basketball systems.
6. Other teams would have to trade everything to get him. If the Knicks wanted him for example, they would essentially swap their existing super stars to get him. So the Bucks would become like the Knicks (currently 3d in the East) and the Knicks would be…well nothing. At best 5th in the East like the Bucks are now. So what is the point?
7. The way Giannis has been promoted these past years has greatly reduced the trade value of all other players on the Bucks. Even Dame would likely not get much anymore because everyone was too busy blaming him since he came to the Bucks. So forget any interesting joint trade package. The Bucks have no chips to sit at the table with.
8. Giannis is a seriously limited player, incompatible with the way the game is now played. He is one of the worse ball screeners, he doesn’t understand angles, he has the worse 3point shot in the history of the NBA, his free throws are getting worse, he is terrible in clutch situations. In essence a dinosaur. Don’t be fooled by the stat padding, the truth appears in the playoffs and harder matchups. He suddenly has no mid range and looks lost if his one trick pony approach doesn’t work.
9. He seems to like the narrative of being a sole hero on a useless team. So why not continue? Everyone at the Bucks will treat him like a gracious hero and loyal player. He can pretend it was his choice to stay. He can smash various franchise records with the help of a team designed around him.
10. He has an easy and obvious out. Returning to Greece to play with one of the Euroleague contenders. By then he can claim some old injury if he fails there too. But again he will be treated like a returning here in Greece.
So rejoice Bucks fans! Looks like Giannis will stay in Milwaukee for a long time yet!
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’.
78 journalists had him as their first pick. Only 23 had Harden and…that was it. Clear cut case.
He won it again the next year. Again it was only him and Lebron as top vote getters for No1 place in the MVP race. 85 journalists said it was Giannis.
And then? Then the league figured out he just simply isn’t a playoff player. Only one journalist considered him first choice MVP for the 2020-2021 season.
So when you say he is “in the MVP” race, it is an extremely loose way of using the term. The following years only a handful of journalists had him in the top position and possibly this year again maybe 2-3 at best. Whether it’s Embid…
or the Joker,
Clearly Giannis is nowhere near top of mind for most judges. Sure he gets points from the 2nd and 3d place which add up. But he is nowhere near MVP and the downhill is pretty clear.
In the position he plays it not unusual to be past his prime at his age. Furthermore he has no other skill with which to supplement his game. His 3 is getting worse (worse in the history of the NBA) and his free throws are simply appalling.
It is great that the NBA gives out all these consolation prizes. But when players believe the hype and start hogging the ball for stat padding it can clearly damage their team. For the 2024-25 season Giannis received no votes for first but nor for second!
Why not both? Well, of course someone can feel as if he belongs to multiple countries. No reason not to. And Giannis has multiple influences due to his amazing life story. But let’s hear it from him:
A great interview indeed. “A lot of people think my mom or my dad are from Greece, but no. Both of my parents are black. Both of my parents are Nigerian.”
“I grew up in a Nigerian home,” Antetokounmpo said. “Obviously, I was born in Greece and went to school in Greece. But at the end of the day when I go home, there is no Greek culture. It’s straight-up Nigerian culture. It’s about discipline, it’s about respecting your elders, having morals.”
Well that is pretty clear. In fact he throws shade on Greeks as people that don’t respect their elders and don’t have morals.
It was clear that the NBA wanted to promote into Africa using Giannis and other players.
But it didn’t work out and they retracted that whole effort. Africa is too focused on soccer. It just didn’t work. So Giannis redirected to Greece which was easier. Win win, sponsorship in both countries gallore!
Giannis confusion and lack of clarity is best described by the way he closes the interview: “There were a lot of times when I was in Greece where people said, ‘You’re not Greek. You’re Nigerian because you’re black.’ But then there have been a lot of times where it’s been the opposite, where people say, ‘You’re not African. You’re Greek. You’re ‘The Greek Freak.’ ’ But I don’t really care about that. Deep down, I know who I am and where I am from. That’s all that matters to me.”
Does it matter what Giannis feels like he is? Unless you are a racist, not really. But it does seem a bit hypocritical when he lays on the emotion for all three of his countries. Because now he is also American. That’s where he lives, that’s were he makes his money, that’s where he married and had kids.
“This is my home” and “this is my city”, right in the US of A. Again and again. A Greek politician wrote an interesting article on this topic that is worth reading in whole:
“IS GIANNIS GREEK?
The term “Greek-American”, I suppose we all know . I also assume we understand what it means: someone who is originally from Greece and lives in America. The term does not specify whether he or she was born in Greece or descended from parents, grandparents or great-grandparents who are Greek. It does not specify whether he or she speaks good Greek, goes to church every Sunday, visits Greece often, or owns property here. He does not specify where his ancestors lived in 1500 AD, 500 AD or 500 BC. He does not specify if all his ancestors were Greek or if there was a grandmother who was English, German, Irish. So, without defining the factors that shape ethnic identity, we can’t determine the percentage of Greek and American that make up John Pappas’ personality, can we? There is the 5th generation Greek-American who doesn’t even know where Greece is on the map, there is the Greek-American who left to the US to study, stayed and married there, comes back at least once a year, and keeps dreaming of returning. If the former is 5% Greek and 95% American, the latter is the reverse.
So, someone who was born to Nigerian parents in Greece and grew up, went to school, made his bones here and now has a career in America is both Nigerian to some extent, Greek to some extent, and American to some extent. At the same time. The ratio depends on many objective factors. If Giannis puts down roots in America, after 40 years “American” will greatly increase his percentages compared to “Greek” and “Nigerian”, does anyone disagree? But it also depends on a subjective: how he feels. And Giannis has told us how he feels: A Greek of Nigerian descent. Makes sense, doesn’t it? Could it be something else?
And because he has Greek nationality, he plays for the Greek national team and represents us like Mirella Maniani, Kachi Kahiasvili or Artiom Kuregian used to represent us, none of whom are natives of our country. Do we mind? I don’t mind at all. In a world without barriers, blood is stirring. George Papandreou has 37.5% Greek blood (25% from his grandfather and 12.5% from his Polish great-grandfather’s wife). But that didn’t stop him from becoming prime minister. So I can’t understand either those who launch fireworks like “Giannis is much more Greek than some people who…” or the others, on the opposite side, who resent him for wearing the national team jersey being the presumably best player in the world. And because many of them are also divine, I remind them that St. Moses, whose memory the Orthodox Church commemorates on August 28, is called “the Ethiopian” and was a currant, blacker than John. If God accepted him into the bosom of holiness (he was even a thief before he repented), why don’t you, my god, accept John into the bosom of Greek basketball?
I remember many darker players, who were cheered by the nation when they led the Greek teams and the National Team to distinctions: from the late Roy Tarpley, who had given Aris the European Cup in 1993, to Sophocles Schorsianitis, who is also blacker than Giannis. Not to mention many other legendary names of the Greek courts, basketball and football, who had no trace of Greek blood in their veins. In all the great Greek basketball teams, foreigners outnumber Greeks, but we don’t mind if they represent Piraeus, the Athens Trifylli, Thessaloniki, the Union of Constantinople. And even with annual contracts – today I am, tomorrow I am not – without speaking Greek. So if it is convincing for them to feel honoured, as Marcelo said (in English), wearing the red (green, yellow, etc.) jersey, why does it seem unconvincing that Giannis feels the same honour with the national team jersey?
There is, of course, a difference. The other players came to the country legally, not by crossing the border, as Giannis’ family did. This difference leads some to the bulletproof conclusion that those who are proud (I’m one of them) of Giannis striding half the court in three steps before he nails it are also pro-illegal immigration (I’m not one of them). Adding to the misunderstanding is the fact that the “solidarity” side uses a stupid argument: if Giannis hadn’t come to Greece, his talent would not have been showcased. So, we should let the Afro-Asian militias come in, in case some great basketball or even curling talent emerges, who knows! The reasoning is of similar wisdom to “if it hadn’t been for the Asia Minor Catastrophe, your grandfather wouldn’t have come from Ayvali, he wouldn’t have known your grandmother from Faliro, so you wouldn’t have existed.” Does that mean you owe a debt of gratitude to Kemal? Do you know how much talent is now lost somewhere in the depths of Africa?
Must all of Africa migrate to Sepolia to become known for their talents? However, we know very well how much Greek talent is leaving a country that has become a dystopian nightmare, and because of illegal immigration. If I had to weigh up the sporting, scientific, artistic, etc. talents that emerged from the mass invasion on the one hand, and the transformation of my country into a multicultural mob and Athens into Islamabad on the other, I would a thousand times rather we lost those talents, and Giannis included, and regained the Greece we had in the 1960s. Look at Omonia, Panepistimiou and Patision in movies of the era and do the comparison.
But because time does not turn back, John is a good case study. His family didn’t come to avoid war, but to find a better fortune. They tried to survive by working. Yes, by trafficking, but not by crime. They gave their four children, born here, Greek names. Yes, and Nigerian so as not to be cut off from their roots, but Greek prevailed. As Giannis he is known around the world, not as Sina Ugo. Greek Freak is his nickname, not Greek-Nigerian. That means assimilation. He didn’t go to the KNE to join the whole world’s infernos, he went to the Philathlete. He chose instead of walking up and down the Stadium protesting, he ran up and down the floor declaring – both in words and deeds – that he will try hard to escape his “fate”.
He was baptized an Orthodox Christian along with his brother Alexander, a significant Greek date: October 28 (in 2012, when he was 17 years old). The parish priest of St. Meletius was his mentor. “I don’t remember him ever complaining or feeling hurt by life and being aggressive towards society,” says the (highly regarded) Fr. Evangelos Ganas, and adds: “What I can’t forget was the look in John’s eyes. There was an innocence and a hope. There was no fear and resentment.” Certainly, a much more Christian attitude than that of the knife-wielding guardian, who, when, in his first matches with the national team, Giannis was trying to find his role, was rejoicing, along with his dark-skinned, African-faced protégé, that the national team lost but the “Nigerian” did not score a point, concluding from this that… God is Greek (and, of course, white), and apparently punished us for putting black on the team, so we lost. (I guess he saved it for us in the game against Germany, too.)
Giannis kisses the national flag, waves the Greek flag and refuses to… stain it with his signature, when his Greek-American fans ask him to do so, while some natives claim the right to burn it. He participates in films with social messages, offering his gold-plated image for free. He has charitable social work that keeps him away from the cameras. If that doesn’t show loyalty and devotion to Greece and its values, what does? So, the path of this child proves that there are, among the bereaved, those who can integrate, want to integrate and, in doing so, benefit both our society and themselves. And it makes the need to separate the wheat from the chaff even more urgent.
I don’t want to be misunderstood: for those who have already come! Our borders (and incentives) must be closed tightly for any new invaders, even if we lose new talent. I won’t mention how here, I’ve written dozens of articles on the subject, but I’ll emphasize once again that those who want to integrate show it early and in the details.
These details will determine whether they will be naturalized as Greek citizens (i.e. obedient). Because for every Yannis who wants to be Greek, there are thousands of Ahmed and Mohamad who don’t. When you give citizenship, without any criteria, to Afro-Asians, 99% Muslims, with the only condition that they have lived 4-5 years or have been born in Europe, at some point, the whole of Europe will become an Islamic caliphate, through democratic procedures. So, rightly, John did not get Greek citizenship when he was a child, even though he was born here. The same should apply to all immigrants. The concept of citizenship should also be legally separated from nationality, with the main difference being the right to vote. (Other differences could be the degree of access to social and welfare programs and to health care benefits.)
An immigrant, even if he becomes a European citizen, will not vote and, of course, will not be elected. This right will be granted, from the second generation onwards, if certain criteria are met. If they are not met, not even for great-grandchildren! Why should the 3rd descendant of a Pakistani family living in an Islamic ghetto get the right to vote, the same or worse than his grandparents? European experience (and relevant research) proves that 2nd and 3rd generation Muslim immigrants are twice as likely to be more bigoted and live more marginalized lives than the 1st generation. Why should they vote? To send Islamic parties and crypto-jihadist MPs to European parliaments?
John’s family was not Muslim. His mother dressed fashionably, she wanted to look European. She left her children free, to be kneaded into the society of their new homeland. They made Greek friends and had relationships with Greek women. They made these multi-racial but ONLY-POLITICAL couples, who I said I was happy to see living as Greeks, in a speech I gave – about the danger of Islamism – and I was attacked by the whole cesspool of uneducated patriots. Yannis’ brother Kostas is preparing, I hear, to marry one of “our” girls. Good crowns! Why not rejoice in the joy of people who loved not only Greece but also its culture, our way of life and want to live like us, here? Because their skin is dark? A little darker than Skourletis’, are we going to make an issue of it?
But there is another parameter, which I have to touch on and I leave it last: the percentage of foreign elements that are assimilated. A society has a limit of resistance to the incorporation of foreign elements. If it exceeds it, it loses its cohesion and its identity. I would not want the country to be flooded with Nigerians, even if they all had John’s intentions and good nature. Nor by Monegasques. A society with Greeks, with all its vices, is a recognizable and largely predictable society, and that gives you security. It’s your home, where you know its “houja”. Like when the ceiling is dripping and you know where to put the plastic bowl if it rains heavily. Being around strangers is intimidatingly unpredictable. And that limit of endurance has long since been exceeded.
That is why we are happy every time John “shoots” the opposing basket, but we are deeply concerned about the spike in crime caused by those who did not choose his path. We protest that they are not being deported and we regret that John has left the country, voluntarily. He too is a Greek boy (of Nigerian origin, at least) who had to emigrate to live his dream. Because the Greek taxpayer also paid for his own development, education and health, but now this investment is paying off in another economy. Just like the huge investment lost due to the brain drain. How many of the 300,000 or so young Greeks who “score” in technology and science in other countries will return to Greece at a productive age and how many will become the new generations of Greek-Americans, Greek-Australians, Greek-Canadians, etc. permanent residents abroad?
So Giannis declares himself to be Greek. But, we all know, that every year he will become more American. That is, less Greek. Like the 300,000 Greek refugees of the crisis. Therein lies the problem.”
For anyone that lasted reading all that but, more importantly, for those seeing how Giannis promotes himself, the conclusion is clear: Giannis is like the wind. He will say whatever it takes depending on the situation. He will pretend to be emotional about being Greek one day. Hey they let him lead the Olympic team even though he hardly ever turns up for the national team during the year. “Milwaukee is home” the next minute. And he will wax lyrical about his Nigerian roots if the NBA tells him to or some sponsor there pays enough.
Every year around this time there are talks about “biggest snubs” and “fan favs” surrounding the All Star voting. It is strange that nobody talks about the ease with which the fan vote can be rigged. So was it? Well it sure is not consistent with every other signal we have about player popularity!
2023, Lillard is with the Blazers, here is what he got. 774,826 votes. Just to remind everyone this is the ‘popular vote’, ie what you can do from your computer or phone or tablet.
So the very next year he moves to the Bucks, the “small market” and more than triples his fan votes! From 0.7 to 2.1 million. Amazing. Even though he didn’t even play very well that first year. Even though the media vote had him 5th again. Was there any kind of identity check when you voted? Yeah, not really, just user name and password. Not even IP was checked for having been used before.
And then this year he fell to 1,570,294 votes. At the same team, same fanbase, even though he is clearly playing better ball this season. And this year you could cheat the system even easier, just a google account and you automatically have an nba.com ID and you can vote every 8 hours. That simple. Why every 8 hours? It sure as hell gives determined cheats (or bots) an advantage over ‘normal’ fans. Most of us probably only remember to vote every day or every other day…
So what happened? The only rational explanation is that some (probably Greek) fans of Giannis with access to a University server maybe and knowledge in programming got a bot farm going for votes. Doesn’t really make sense anyhow else.
This year they must have scaled back the voting for Dame because they overdid it last year or because they no longer like Dame. (Like a lot of the Bucks fan base, blaming him for every failure.) Problem with bot voting is that your success sort of gives the game away!
So is Giannis that popular? Well we know he isn’t! Lebron and Steph have many times more views on social media. Giannis jersey sales are dropping in the rankings all the time. TV ratings for Bucks games don’t do that well either. (They never did.) So what indicator correlates with the unexpectedly high number of votes that Giannis suddenly received these past few years?
I realize I can’t “prove” all this. And that is the problem. Nobody can prove or disprove it. The NBA for sure won’t ever admit it. But it is unfair, it is wrong and – end of the day – it is doing even Giannis a disservice.
Many years from now it will be shared in business school as an obvious blunder of epic dimensions. A franchise in a ‘small market’ (untrue but that is how it is presented) wins a championship after many years thanks to an amazing MVP player that everyone loves. And then…. constant failure as they drove themselves into the ground for another half century.
But how?
The rise of the Bucks I have documented here. They carefully traded players that could play around Giannis’ many weaknesses. And they won the NBA finals! Dream rag to riches story both for Giannis and the Bucks franchise. And that’s when the mistakes started:
Overpromising. “Khris let’s run it back!” said an exuberant Giannis on winning the chip. Many players say this. It’s only natural when you are on top of the world. The problem is that they acted as if it would be easy. As if they deserved that championship. They didn’t.
Running it back. It quickly became apparent that the team was nowhere near the other contenders. But the Bucks didn’t change anything. Some players read the signs and had had enough of the Giannis’ bullshit. Everyone was annoyed by the way he hogged the spotlight. But the media knew, anyone that knows ball knew. Giannis only got 1 vote for 1st place in MVP the next year. It was over. We all knew he can’t do clutch. And it just got worse because…
Make it OK to blame everyone else. It’s either the coaching staff or the rest of the roster. And this is official, from the top, the Bucks’ marketing machine is promoting Giannis as the ultimate tool so indirectly answering the question “what is to blame for our failures?” with “well, must be something other than Giannis!”
Catch22 of killing trade value for the rest of the roster. The Bucks are so busy protecting their investment in Giannis that they don’t realize that they are effectively killing their potential for trades. The NBA is no longer about throwing money around to get players. It is only about what assets you have that others want. But when you are constantly using the narrative of Giannis being perfect and everyone else to blame? Beverley , George Hill, Donte DiVincenzo were practically worthless as trade assets by the time the Bucks gave them away.
Hiding Giannis in the playoffs with pretend injuries. It really doesn’t matter if he was genuinely injured or it was a ploy. The Bucks would have lost those series anyway. The fact of the matter is that they have hyped Giannis to overplay in the regular season by promoting his stats above everything and everyone else.
Giannis weaknesses become apparent to all. This year they tried to spread the myth of Giannis mid range shot. It isn’t true of course. The NBA has moved ahead, the game is played in a way which makes Giannis almost irrelevant in the playoffs. Running and dunking, bully ball in the paint, only works in regular season match ups where the opponents don’t want to risk injury. Players like Wemby have the complete package. Giannis saying “I won’t take 3s” in a league of 3s is simply stupid. Especially when he is shooting the worse of any player in NBA history.
So what will happen? These playoffs they will hope to get to the second round at least. Then they can pretend that
“with a few additions”
“with some changes to the coaching staff”
“with different tactics”
or some other equally hairbrained excuse for dumbies, they will have a better chance next year. Then the season will roll as always, with the Bucks killing themselves to be high in the rankings in the regular season and failing again abysmally in the playoffs. Eventually Giannis will demand a trade if he has run out of excuses or if they lose badly enough from the first round.
And it will be too late.
Even without the significant potential for injury with the way he plays, the league has moved ahead without him. It’s not just his lack of 3. Giannis’ biggest problem is that he is one of the worse screeners in the NBA, he simply doesn’t understand angles at all. He can’t play advanced systems or even understand them. He can’t switch fast enough. He trains in such a stupid way that he is getting worse at free throws even. And most of all he is a victim of his own myth. He actually believes he is one of the best players in the NBA even though he lacks connections to the other players in meaningful ways and most don’t want him on their teams.
So even if he changes team, Giannis will fail. Badly. Maybe a team that wants him to try hard in the regular season so they can rest their aging superstars for the playoffs. Will his ego allow him such a role? Can he handle being benched in the playoffs? In any case the Bucks will be without options, without a young core for the future and with a sad memory of what they think could have been.
Feel free to use this for your MBA reading material. Don’t forget to play sad violin music while you read.
*Giannis isn’t a fail story of course for himself personally, he is so rich that all this is almost irrelevant to him even if his career keeps on this downhill trajectory.
Looking at his defensive rating it is clear that Giannis has given up trying in defence since he won DPOY. Every year he gets worse. (Lower is better for defensive rating.)
Other than racking up the easy defensive rebounds when nobody else is around….nada. It becomes clear when we look at any defensive metric which is multi factorial, for example the top 10 this season in Stable Rebounds/75 1. Kevon Looney 2. Isaiah Hartenstein 3. Steven Adams 4. Jonas Valanciunas 5. Andre Drummond 6. Ivica Zubac 7. Karl-Anthony Towns 8. Domantas Sabonis 9. Donovan Clingan 10. Walker Kessler.
Up there on the top right are the kings of defence. Rim protectors who also score well in D-Lebron (an all inclusive defence metric.) Giannis is nowhere, less steals, less blocks, less offensive rebounds, less everything. Here are the top in defensive rating this season, a good mix of various positions:
The Top 10 in Post Defense as per basketball index:
Domantas Sabonis
Jakob Poeltl
Wendell Carter Jr.
Nikola Vucevic
Deandre Ayton
Georges Niang
Jusuf Nurkic
Clint Capela
Trayce Jackson-Davis
Victor Wembanyama
And here is rim protection in the effective defensive percentage in relation to rim contests. Giannis has stopped almost everything in order to stat pad this season.
Next time some idiot starts shouting “MVP” when Giannis does something cool, maybe rethink it. He is now missing so many games he is out of that competition for this season and probably out of the scoring lead too.
After losing to the Warriors last night, many Bucks’ fans claimed that if Giannis was in the roster it would have been different. Maybe they need to learn how to use Google.
In the previous loss (similar score) Giannis got his stat padding done but it didn’t help.
The game before that the Bucks won…because Curry was resting. In fact these two teams don’t meet up very often but it does seem as if a) the Warriors are far superior and b) they don’t really care. In March 2022 when they met, again Giannis got 31 points but it did no good. Klay Thompson got 38 and the Warriors won easily.
The Top 10 in On-Ball Gravity as per Basketball index:
Damian Lillard
Jalen Brunson
James Harden
Stephen Curry
Anthony Edwards
Jayson Tatum
Jalen Green
Cade Cunningham
Trae Young
Luka Doncic
Giannis can’t deal with the Warriors big when they want to defend him. They just don’t bother usually in the regular season because like everybody else in the league they are not stupid to risk injury against the stupid way Giannis plays.
The speed of the Bucks offence would make it absolutely impossible for Giannis to play on their team. The trade rumours are completely stupid. Giannis can’t think that fast, let alone even understand the advanced plays the Warriors implement. Most importantly Giannis is one of the worse screeners in the NBA and screening is top priority for the Warriors. (Screening and getting away with it!)
In the 2022-23 season, the Bucks were 11-8 without Giannis. Of course he often skips games he knows they will lose. Last season they won 49 games and lost 33. There are a few reasons why the Bucks might be more successful without Giannis. First, the Bucks play a more balanced style of offense without Giannis. When Giannis is playing, the Bucks tend to rely on him to create most of their offense and of course he holds the ball way too long. Without Giannis, the Bucks’ other players have to step up and contribute more on offense. Second, the Bucks play with more energy and effort without Giannis. When Giannis is playing, the Bucks can sometimes get complacent, knowing that Giannis won’t let them get involved anyway. Without Giannis, the Bucks have to play harder and more focused in order to win.
Giannis missing the All Star game really is great for the NBA. For starters he is boring as hell to watch. Really doesn’t contribute to the glamour or spectacle of the All Star weekend, just makes it awkward usually. Do you remember the Anteto brothers in the skills contest? Yeah, exactly.
When the lights shine brightest Giannis and his clan simply never deliver. Even mic’ed up he is boring as watching paint dry:
This is fine. Not every NBA player can be spectacular. Giannis is boring in the way he plays and slightly amusing sometimes when he cracks jokes in a way that appeals to a few fans. The more important reason for Giannis to sit out games is that the Bucks simply play better without him:
That is the box score against the 76ers yesterday, a well rounded team performance. The ball moves better, defence is more agile. This isn’t just about Plus-Minus Metrics or APM. Offensive and defensive ratings are different and it really shows up what a practical problem Giannis is on the floor for any team with his lack of flexibility and emphasis on personal stat padding.
I would go as far as to claim that it is even good for Giannis. He needs to take some time to reflect on the mess he has created in the Bucks over the years with his dumb demands and direct or indirect influence over trades all these years. His emphasis on strength training which has ruined his shooting. The way he stat pads and ruins the game flow. He needs to get people around him that don’t suck up and tell him facts as they are: he has low basketball IQ and needs help on the court. It simply isn’t working. The championship was a massive lucky fluke. He needs to rethink the way he shuns working with other NBA stars. He needs to rethink his whole approach to the game and training for it.
Team chemistry and morale, the changes in playing style and strategy and of course the much increased opportunities for other players. Everyone bad mouthing the coaching staff now gets to see what they can do with players that can execute without Giannis impeding them. This Bucks team without Giannis is just that: a team.
