Latest news with #GreekFreak
USA Today
4 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Should the Boston Celtics tank if they can't trade for Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo?
Should the Boston Celtics tank if they can't trade for Milwaukee Bucks star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo? The Celtics are in a bit of a reset season after star Boston forward Jayson Tatum went down with an Achilles tendon injury in the 2025 NBA Playoffs. While he seems to be okay with staying in Milwaukee for the present, it is not out of the question that he might want a change of scenery if things go sideways again. But does it make sense to tank if the Greek Freak is not coming to Boston? At least one fan of the team thinks so, and the folks behind the "NESN" YouTube channel put together a clip from their "Hold My Banner" show taking a closer look at that aggressive point of view. They also touch on some other pressing questions the Celtics will need to answer by the end of the offseason, so check it out below.
Time of India
21-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Toni Kukoc just explained why Giannis Antetokounmpo might be even scarier if he ever learns to shoot
(Image Source - Getty Images) Toni Kukoc won three NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls in the 1990s, often gets brought up in these discussions. He's recognized for his impressive basketball IQ and diverse skill set, which often leads to him being compared to current stars like Nikola Jokic and Luka Doncic. Lately, Kukoc has shifted the focus to another superstar — Giannis Antetokounmpo , indicating that if the 'Greek Freak' can perfect his jump shot, he could turn into an even more formidable player in the league. Giannis Antetokounmpo's physical dominance makes him the closest match to Toni Kukoc Toni Kukoc's remarks shows that he pondered how his game holds up against today's top athletes. While the precise source isn't clear, his statements are impactful considering his remarkable career and thorough understanding of basketball. He began with a playful jab at Jokic before diving into his comparison with Giannis, "Jokic is great, but I was still a little faster than him and could jump higher, hahaha," Kukoc said with a laugh. "Of course, I'm joking. I see some similarities in a lot of players. Jokic reads the game incredibly well, Doncic is amazing, but although he's physically much stronger than I was, I actually think Giannis Antetokounmpo is the most similar to me. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Beyond Text Generation: An AI Tool That Helps You Write Better Grammarly Install Now Undo " Toni Kukoc was defined by finesse and intelligence while Giannis Antetokounmpo thrives on athletic power Toni Kukoc is 6 '10 " and was a forerunner of finesse basketball. He depended on his knowledge of geometry, spacing, and timing, thriving as a passer, scorer, and rebounder with a graceful, almost effortless technique. His gameplay was thoughtful, rooted in European fundamentals rather than raw power. Giannis, at 6 '11' is a true physical specimen. His long arms, explosive strides, and tireless energy allow him to dominate with speed, strength, and athleticism—traits that resonate with the American way of playing. The secret is their shared adaptability. Kukoc was a versatile player who could play in various positions, control the ball, direct plays, and make an impact on the game in many different ways. Likewise, Giannis often takes on the role of the Bucks' primary ball-handler, using his physicality and skills to generate chances for himself and others. Toni Kukoc imagines an unstoppable version of Giannis Antetokounmpo with a reliable jump shot Toni Kukoc sees some similarities, but he's not ignoring Giannis's issues. He focused on one of the most commonly mentioned weaknesses in the Greek Freak's game: his shooting. Kukoc didn't hold back, "I'd agree with that because he has no shot. His shot comes from the floor—there's no jump shot. I don't understand why that is, and I don't know if he can even learn it." This review hits right at the essence of a long-held belief about Giannis. Despite his sheer dominance, his jump shot is still pretty shaky. In the 2020-2021 season, he only shot 30.3% from three-point range (1.3 makes on 4.2 attempts per game) and 68.5% from the free-throw line. Kukoc's observation that Giannis's shot "comes from the floor" points to his mechanics; unlike traditional shooters who elevate and release at the peak, Giannis's form often lacks lift, making it easier to contest. Kukoc's remark comes when he imagines Giannis with a polished shot, "Imagine how much he'd score if he had a jump shot and could hit threes and free throws." Also Read: How Caitlin Clark's ongoing recovery could impact the Indiana Fever's clash with the New York Liberty Their games, while distinct, converge on versatility and impact, bridging the European and American styles that define the modern NBA. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
20-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
NBA Trade Rumors: Could Milwaukee Bucks Giannis Antetokounmpo Team Up With $215,159,700 Atlanta Hawks to Improve Title Odds?
Giannis Antetokounmpo (Image via USA Today) In a bold trade proposal that has the potential to shake up the NBA landscape, the Atlanta Hawks have been linked to a blockbuster deal that would land them two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks . The trade idea, first floated by Connor Thoms of Bleacher Report, suggests Atlanta could be an unexpected suitor for the Greek Freak, especially in a rapidly changing Eastern Conference. Proposed Trade Breakdown Here's how the trade would look according to Thoms' hypothetical scenario: Atlanta Hawks Receive Milwaukee Bucks Receive Giannis Antetokounmpo Jalen Johnson Zaccharie Risacher Kobe Bufkin Four first-round picks One pick swap This package gives Milwaukee a mix of promising young players and future draft capital, while Atlanta forms a formidable 'Big 3' with Antetokounmpo joining All-Stars Trae Young and Kristaps Porzingis. Eastern Conference Shake-Up Giannis Antetokounmpo (Image via Trevor Ruszkowski, Imagn Images) If executed, this deal would dramatically alter the balance of power in the East. With Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton and Boston's Jayson Tatum both expected to miss the upcoming season due to injuries, the door is open for a new contender to rise. Pairing Giannis with Trae and Porzingis offers Atlanta a lethal combination of speed, size, and shot-making that could push them deep into the playoffs. Antetokounmpo's Uncertain Future According to ESPN's Shams Charania, Giannis Antetokounmpo is reportedly 'open-minded' about leaving Milwaukee for the first time in his career. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Ready for a Glow-Up? [Get Your Reading Now] Undo Glow-Up Packages from $15 [Sign Up] Undo Affect Your Future Now! (Book Today) Undo That openness comes after the Bucks' disappointing first-round exit at the hands of the Indiana Pacers, who dispatched them in five games. Ashish Mathur, who reported on the trade idea for NBA Analysis Network, emphasized the weight of such a move: 'It will be intriguing to see if Antetokounmpo stays with Milwaukee or requests a trade.' Giannis has been loyal to Milwaukee since being selected 15th overall in the 2013 NBA Draft. Over his 12 seasons with the Bucks, he's helped transform the franchise into a perennial playoff team and led them to an NBA title in 2021. Bucks' Recent Moves Signal Change Since their playoff exit, the Bucks have been active in retooling their roster: - Waived and stretched Damian Lillard - Signed Myles Turner and Gary Harris - Re-signed Bobby Portis, Kevin Porter Jr., Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince, and Jericho Sims Despite these moves, Milwaukee doesn't currently look like a true title contender, prompting growing speculation that a Giannis trade may become a reality. Giannis Antetokounmpo by the Numbers The Greek Freak remains one of the league's most dominant forces. Last season, he earned All-NBA First Team honors while posting monster stats: Stat Category 2024-2025 Season Average Points 30.4 Rebounds 11.9 Assists 6.5 Steals 0.9 Blocks 1.2 He's also locked into a lucrative three-year, $175 million extension signed in 2023, with a salary of $54.1 million for the upcoming season. A Hall of Fame Trajectory Already etched in NBA history, Antetokounmpo's resume includes: - 2× MVP - 1× NBA Finals MVP - 1× Defensive Player of the Year - 9× All-Star - 2021 NBA Champion With career averages of 23.9 points, 9.9 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game, Giannis is all but guaranteed to be enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. While this trade remains hypothetical, it underlines a major question heading into the 2025-26 season: will Giannis remain loyal to Milwaukee, or is it finally time for a new chapter? Also read: NBA Trade News: Los Angeles Lakers Sign Marcus Smart with a $11 Million Deal; High-Stakes Move for Defensive Reinforcement With Atlanta positioning itself as a bold contender and the Bucks seemingly at a crossroads, the NBA world will be watching closely. Would Giannis actually leave the only NBA home he's ever known to chase another ring in Atlanta? Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Yahoo
14-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Bucks 'In a Good Place' With Giannis Antetokounmpo, Team President Claims
Bucks 'In a Good Place' With Giannis Antetokounmpo, Team President Claims originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Before NBA free agency started, there were questions about Giannis Antetokounmpo's future with the Milwaukee Bucks. After a third straight year where the Bucks were eliminated in the first round, many believe Antetokounmpo will ask to leave the franchise that drafted him. Advertisement However, there hasn't been any update on whether Antetokounmpo wants to continue his career in Milwaukee. The rumors started to pick up some pace after the Bucks waived All-Star guard Damian Lillard to sign free agent center Myles Turner. Although Lillard is still viewed as a star in the league, he's expected to miss the entire 2025-26 NBA season due to a torn Achilles tendon. The Bucks want to remain competitive with Antetokounmpo, but having his co-star recover from a devastating injury limits them. Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo pregame against the Cleveland McLoone-Imagn Images On Sunday, team president Peter Feigin was interviewed during the Summer League's broadcast of the Bucks' game against the Los Angeles Clippers. NBA analyst Jared Greenberg questioned Feigin about the team's current position on Antetokounmpo's future. Advertisement The executive played it cool and said this: "We kinda laugh internally, it's where we've been for 10 years," Feigin said. "Giannis loves Milwaukee, Milwaukee loves Giannis. We're at a good place. We feel great about it. It's business as usual." Feigin said that the team is having a bit of fun regarding the speculation about Antetokounmpo's future with the organization. The executive summarized his answer by saying that the Greek Freak is in a good place and the team is excited to run it back with him next season. Since the team's postseason elimination, there have been moments where Antetokounmpo dropped hints about what his next step with the Bucks is. Most of the hints he's dropped are leaning towards him staying. Advertisement Related: Bucks' Myles Turner Claims to be 'Evolving' His Game This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 14, 2025, where it first appeared.
Time of India
11-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Doc Rivers reveals bold plan to use Giannis Antetokounmpo as point guard amid ongoing trade rumors
Giannis Antetokounmpo is in Milwaukee Bucks (Image via Instagram / giannis_an34) The future of Giannis Antetokounmpo with the Milwaukee Bucks is still the subject of trade rumours. However, Doc Rivers has already created his grand strategy for the upcoming season. It appears that he doesn't care about the rumours that connected the NBA legend to New York or Houston. He talked about his plans for the NBA icon during a recent appearance. Giannis Antetokounmpo to lead as point guard next season, says Doc Rivers amid trade speculation The Milwaukee Bucks have made several significant moves in recent weeks, but one of their most significant moves might be an inside one. They cut and stretched Damian Lillard to sign Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million deal. Additionally, Giannis Antetokounmpo's continuing presence was ensured by these deals. It also reportedly moved the team closer to contention. Doc Rivers appeared on a recent NBATV broadcast at the Vegas Summer League and discussed his plans for the Milwaukee Bucks star's future. He also stated that he made a drastic choice after Damian Lillard 's injury the previous season. He made the Greek Freak the main ball handler for the team by giving Giannis Antetokounmpo the point guard responsibilities. The team was reportedly taken aback by the move. He further acknowledges that when he came up with the idea, his coaching staff questioned his sanity. He stated: 'The second half of the year, when I put the ball in Giannis' hands, we did it by default. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giá vàng đang tăng mạnh trong năm 2025 — Các nhà giao dịch thông minh đã tham gia IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo I'd love to say, I'm this genius and I thought, 'Hey let's play Giannis at the point guard spot'.' He then revealed: 'When I brought it up with our coaches, they thought I had lost my mind. When I brought it up with Giannis, he thought I had lost my mind.' Giannis Antetokounmpo is a remarkable player (Image via Instagram / @giannis_an34) He further admitted that the plan reportedly wasn't well thought out. However, this is probably the reason why the Milwaukee Bucks were able to start the postseason as the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference , despite Damian Lillard's injury forcing his hand. Then, further explaining his plan for the NBA legend , he said: 'Nobody's pressuring Giannis. So it allowed us, even against Indiana, to bring up the ball pressure free.' The tactic has a chain effect. Due to this decision, the Milwaukee Bucks' shooters can get clean shots because Giannis Antetokounmpo attracts defensive attention. Also read: Giannis Antetokounmpo tours Athens with IShowSpeed, stunned by huge crowd outside hotel For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Manika Batra's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 3. Watch Here!
