In a game where the Lakers dominated the Bucks with a lead of up to 31 points, attention was diverted at the end of the match. The focus was on a gesture of camaraderie that ended in an unexpected dispute over the game ball.
The Post-Match Incident
After Lakers rookie Adou Thiero scored his first four points in the NBA, including a spectacular dunk, player Jarred Vanderbilt tried to secure the ball to give it to his teammate. However, head referee Pat Fraher intervened. I went to grab the ball. The rookie scored his first points, that’s what happens in the league. Fraher argued that the ball belonged to the Bucks, a decision that surprised the Lakers players. Guard Austin Reaves expressed his disbelief at the situation.Vanderbilt revealed that the referee warned him that he would be sanctioned for his action. The situation generated controversy and left the players perplexed.He said it wasn’t my ball to give, which was like… I had never heard that.
Austin Reaves
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s gesture
Faced with the confusion, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks star, intervened. He took the ball from the team staff and gave it to Luka Doncic, Lakers player. This gesture was highly valued by Reaves.Doncic later gave the ball to Thiero in the locker room, a moment the rookie described as a reflection of the team’s unity.That shows a lot of class.
Austin Reaves
At first I didn’t realize it was all for me. But I am very grateful for this team. I think that shows how connected we are and how much we want others to succeed.
Adou ThieroThiero, who made his NBA debut on Saturday after recovering from a knee injury, was one of the standout players in the game. The victory brought the Lakers to a 10-4 record for the season.Anyway, I’m glad he [the game ball] got it. He deserves it. That’s a great achievement, scoring your first points in the NBA. Especially in a win.
Jarred Vanderbilt
