Giannis Antetokounmpo’s ‘Sneaky’ Layup Puts Bucks On Top Over Hornets

During the last few seconds of Wednesday night’s tie between the Milwaukee Bucks and Charlotte Hornets, Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo won the nailbiter of a game for Milwaukee. Reflecting on his game-winning layup, Antetokounmpo had some jokes about his part in the Bucks’ exciting 127-125 victory.

Sneaky does not typically describe Antetokounmp’s game since he usually asserts his talent and dominance on the court. However, in this case, Giannis did what he believed was necessary to lead the team to their eighth straight victory and capped an enormous personal performance while doing so.

On Wednesday, Giannis scored 40 points with 12 rebounds and nine assists. Antetokounmp also made nine of 13 free throws he shot. In addition, Wednesday marked the fourth time in Giannis’ career he made the go-ahead field goal inside the final five seconds of the fourth quarter or overtime, and the first time since 10’8, per ESPN Stats & Information research.

The Bucks got off to a bumpy start to the season, which led to questions about the future of the reigning championship team. Yet, Wednesday’s win contributed to a winning streak, and their 14-8 record currently has the team tied for second place of the Eastern Conference with the Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards.

Twenty-six-year-old Giannis Antetokounmp, who is turning 27, on December 6, is a big part of the team’s ongoing success. Already a nine-year veteran, Giannis has two NBA MVP awards to his name and an NBA Finals MVP award under his belt.

So far this season, he is averaging 27.6 points, 11.8 rebounds, 6.0 assists, 1.7 blocks and 1.1 steals per game. With statistics like that, who knows? Antetokounmpo could be MVP once again this season.

Article by Mia Perlman