Giannis Antetokounmpo, star of the Milwaukee Bucks, is not used to defeats. In his return to the court on Friday, despite recording 30 points, 15 rebounds and 8 assists in 28 minutes, the Bucks fell to the New York Knicks with a score of 118-109, adding their seventh consecutive loss. This negative streak hadn’t been seen since March 2014, Antetokounmpo’s rookie year, when the team had a 15-67 record. After the game, the player made a passionate call for his team to regain their “competitive spirit” and change the course of the season.
Antetokounmpo talked about the changes needed for Milwaukee (8-12), currently in 11th place in the Eastern Conference and two games away from a play-in spot, to get back on the winning track. The player mentioned that, although it is understandable that fatigue influences performance, it is crucial to focus on teamwork and the small actions that contribute to victory. He highlighted the importance of putting aside frustration over missed shots and concentrating on competing together. Antetokounmpo emphasized the need to move the ball, look for open three-point shots, run, and create space on the court. He also mentioned that improvement in offensive rebounding, avoiding fouls, and reducing turnovers are key aspects for the team. Bucks coach Doc Rivers also pointed out the importance of improving offensive rebounding, avoiding fouls, and minimizing turnovers. These issues resulted in Milwaukee taking 13 fewer shots and 8 fewer free throws than New York (12-6) on Friday. Antetokounmpo, who returned after a groin injury, played with a minute restriction, which may have contributed to the defeat. The player hopes to increase his playing time against the Brooklyn Nets in the next game.Nobody should have a personal agenda. Nobody should worry about what they want for themselves. Just worry about the winning mentality, the triumph mentality. The more we can win games, the more everything will take care of itself.
Giannis Antetokounmpo
