Jan 25, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) shoots the ball against LA Clippers guard James Harden (1) in the second half at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
As usual, Antetokounmpo was his spectacular self, scoring 36 points and grabbing 13 rebounds, but after the game, he was visibly upset. No one has ever questioned the 30-year-old superstar’s efforts on the court.
So much so that he talked about how hard he goes every night on the court, no matter who is in front of him including his wife.
“Every time I step on the floor, I try to play hard. If I was playing against older players, against younger players, against my brothers, against my friends, or even if I’m playing against my wife — I’ll be honest with you, I always play hard.”
Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo: “Every time I step on the floor, I try to play hard. If I was playing against older players, against younger players, against my brothers, against my friends, or even if I’m playing against my wife — I’ll be honest with you, I always play hard.” pic.twitter.com/euJnNdCJfx
Antetokounmpo is one of the few players with the highest motor in the league. His toughness, tenacity, energy, and passion for the game are often questioned. He gives it his all every single night he is on the court, and the results speak for themselves.
The two-time NBA MVP has once again put himself in contention for this year’s MVP race. He is averaging 31.4 points per game, 12.0 rebounds, 5.8 assists, and 1.4 blocks while shooting 60 percent from the field.
Antetokounmpo was above most of his season averages on Saturday night. He recorded 36 points, 13 rebounds, one assist, and one block in 35 minutes. It was the 11th time this year he has scored 35+ points.
It was a close game, and very hard-fought, but Antetokounmpo feels like they lost control of the game in the fourth quarter.
“I feel like early in the fourth quarter, we wasn’t able to take care of the ball as well,” Antetokounmpo said. “They were able to, whenever we turn the ball over, go the other way and get easy transition, get some 3s, get to the free-throw line.
“They had the momentum, and it was very hard for us to get back to the game. Just gotta do a better job next time we’re in that same position. Just take care of the ball.”
Mar 4, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden (1) drives for the basket against Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) in the first quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo had some surprising words about James Harden
James Harden delivered one of his best games against the Bucks Saturday night, almost looking like the James Harden of the past. After the game, Giannis had surprising words for Harden.
“Incredible. Incredible talent. One of the best players to ever play the game. He’s probably scored 25,000 points plus. Still able to get to his spots. Still able to help his team win.
Despite the Bucks’ loss over the Clippers, 35-year-old veteran James Harden delivered an outstanding performance with 40 points, 5 rebounds, and 9 assists, making him the best statistical player of the game. Giannis Antetokounmpo praised Harden’s longevity, admiring his ability to stay in excellent shape.
Before the Bucks lost to the Clippers, they had put together a nice winning streak, winning 5 out of their last 6 games, which has pushed them up to fourth place in the Eastern Conference standings. As long as Damian Lillard and Giannis are on the floor Milwaukee should still be considered strong contenders for the NBA championship.
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