Giannis Antetokounmpo posted 34 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists in Milwaukee’s 120-113 loss to the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on Wednesday, but stressed the importance of team execution over individual stats.
“We didn’t trust one another. We didn’t have good shot selection. There was a time our effort and energy was good and a time was flat, and they did the complete opposite,” said the Bucks superstar during his postgame availability.
“They trust one another, kept moving the ball, make the right plays… Steph did a really good job facilitating whenever he wasn’t able to get downhill or get his shots off,” the two-time MVP praised the Warriors for their teamwork and cohesion.
Rebounding was a major focus for Antetokounmpo, who said the team needed to improve on the boards, noting that the Warriors grabbed several offensive rebounds in the first half that led to 12 second-chance points and proved decisive in the game.
Giannis Antetokounmpo on the loss to the Warriors
Giannis also addressed the team’s decision-making under pressure, emphasizing that after consecutive poor possessions, the team needs to reset, run the play carefully, and involve everyone, highlighting how energy and focus can spread and impact overall execution.
The Bucks star also spoke about his frustrations with the officiating, including a play where Draymond Green hit him in the face, but he made it clear that the calls did not determine the outcome of the game.
“I really believe referees are human… sometimes I approach a referee and say, ‘Hey, I think you should review that.’ It doesn’t take five seconds. It doesn’t disrupt the game at all,” he said.
Reflecting on the Bucks’ recent stretch, Giannis acknowledged the team’s progress while emphasizing the need for belief and consistency. He noted that winning seven of their last 10 games shows they are moving closer to their potential, but stressed the importance of staying the course and trusting they can compete with any team.
Milwaukee has now dropped six straight games at Chase Center, dating back to January 8, 2020, they continue their Western Conference road trip and will face the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday.
