Giannis Antetokounmpo, famously known as the ‘Greek Freak,’ was once again sidelined, missing the game against the Boston Celtics. In a revealing interview, he emphatically expressed his desire to finally return to play.
Despite a knee injury that forced him to miss his tenth consecutive game – a match the Bucks lost 101:133 to the Celtics – Antetokounmpo unequivocally stated to the media before tip-off that he believes he is fully fit to play. He declared, «I’m ready to play, but I’m not playing. I could play today. Right now. I’m ready!»
Antetokounmpo further emphasized that it feels «unnatural» for him to miss games when he considers himself healthy. He elaborated, «You know who you’re dealing with here. So if someone comes and tells me not to play or not to fight, that’s like a slap in the face.»
Multiple media outlets had previously reported that the Bucks had approached their superstar, ostensibly to persuade him to sit out the remainder of the season. Giannis has battled various injuries throughout the current campaign, participating in only 36 games. With Milwaukee already out of postseason contention five games before the season’s end, additional losses could potentially improve the team’s standing in the draft lottery.
Furthermore, there is concern that another injury to the two-time MVP could diminish his trade value. Over recent months, rumors surrounding the Greek superstar’s potential departure from Milwaukee have intensified. Antetokounmpo himself fueled these speculations before the Celtics game, stating, «I don’t know how this relationship is supposed to continue from here.»
«It Helps No One»: Rivers Urges to Avoid Public Dispute
After the NBA Players Association had already raised concerns that the situation could harm the league’s integrity, the NBA has now reportedly launched its own investigation. Inquiries are believed to be already underway. Various sources reported that Giannis, the Bucks’ management, and the medical staff were questioned by the NBA on Friday.
Head Coach Doc Rivers attempted to distance himself from the conflict on Friday, stating, «The hardest part about this is that I’m right in the middle of it, and I have nothing to do with it. Coaches have no say in any of this, but the problem in our league is that coaches are in the spotlight, we sit here, and I have to answer these questions.»
According to Rivers, there are «two sides» to the story, and he referred to the matter as a «Grown Man’s Game,» suggesting all parties involved should act maturely. For him, the crucial point is: «I’ve never been a fan of airing these kinds of things through the media. It helps no one.»
Without Giannis, the Bucks hold a 13-28 record this season, bringing their overall record to a disappointing 30-47. Antetokounmpo himself, when he was able to play, delivered a strong season, averaging 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists.