NEW YORK — Giannis AntetokounmpoThe inauguration of the Milwaukee Bucks“All-time leader scorer” Thursday night, delivering the performance that has defined his star studded career.
Antetokounmpo was inducted into the Hall of Fame Kareem Abdul-JabbarHis franchise record of 14,211 points was broken by 44 points scored on Thursday, bringing his total to 14,216. He also hit a game-tying 3 pointer with 18 seconds remaining in regulation, which forced overtime. Then he drained two big free shots with three seconds left to secure a win of 120-119 over the opposition. Brooklyn Nets.
Antetokounmpo was 14-for-21 from field, including 1-for-4 shooting from 3-point range and 15-for-19 shooting from the free throw line in 39 minutes. He also had six assists, 14 rebounds, and six assists.
Antetokounmpo laughed and joked, while discussing the record. “I don’t want to be the guy that only dunks or runs. I can make 3!”
Antetokounmpo performed two days after scoring 42 points, 14 rebound, six blocks, and three assists in a victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. He did it all to win a Bucks loss Khris MiddletonAfter he was ejected from the Nets guard for a flagrant 2 foul, he had 5:05 remaining in regulation Bruce Brown.
Antetokounmpo's ability and consistency to improve his game is so evident that coaches and teammates aren't surprised.
Bucks guard: “That's definitely MVP.” Jrue Holiday said. “That's definitely Most Improved player, and I'm not sure he can achieve that at this stage. His game has improved a lot, and it shows — from his free throw line to his fadeaway to his 3-point shot. It's much improved from last year. I felt like we were kind of hanging on each other's coattails. Being able to ride his coattail this way gives us confidence.”
Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP, is not taking all the awards and records in stride despite all of them. Antetokounmpo said that after his win last season of the NBA title and Finals NBA MVP, he is now focused on winning the next championship.
Antetokounmpo expressed respect for Abdul-Jabbar. Antetokounmpo has stated repeatedly in the past that he wants to stay in Milwaukee for all of his career. However, he knows that he will be judged based on how many wins he achieves.
He said that his latest accomplishment was “not really important.” “Because it doesn't really matter if you don’t have a successful year, if that happens, you can't keep trying and getting better, staying humble, and being happy. Nobody's ever going to remember what you did.”
Antetokounmpo said: “So, I just want us all to remain humble. I would like to remain humble. It felt like the more humble I became and the more hungry that I remained, the more I could accomplish. The more I create art, the happier I am. Playing basketball is like creating artwork so the longer I can keep my career alive, It's important to stay humble, to continue trying to win games with my teammates, and to be a good person. Good things like tonight will come.”
Antetokounmpo tried to hide his record but his coaches and teammates knew the importance of it for Antetokounmpo and the entire organization.
“Kareem AbdulJabbar is just one iconic player in our league,” Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said. “And what he was capable of accomplishing in Milwaukee and then going forward, he is one of our all-time greats. Giannis being our all-time career scoring leader, having a front-row seat for nearly four years, is an incredible honor. His teammates are beyond happy. … It's incredible what he has done and there's still a lot to do.
Added Holiday: “He does all things.” This man does everything. I don't know what he can do more. He averages 60 points per game, but he's pretty close to that.
Antetokounmpo was presented with the game ball following the game. He smiled as he made his way up to the podium. Antetokounmpo said that this was the best game he's ever played in his professional career.
“I am over myself. Antetokounmpo explained that she is more able than ever to get to her spot and execute. Even if the ball does not go in, Antetokounmpo was happy with herself. “I believe it's called abundance mentality. I love the things I have done and it gives me confidence. It allows me to be myself and not worry about my past. I am OK with who I am.
“So that I can play good basketball. Mentally, it's a great place. Physically, I believe I have room for improvement. I think I am not as strong as I was 2 years ago. Although I am helping my team win the games, I don’t know if it is the best I have ever played. But I do know that there are many areas I can improve upon.
