Giannis Antetokounmpo spoke at length following the Milwaukee Bucks’ 129-114 loss to the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday, March 10 emphasizing the challenge of returning to game shape. “Just got to keep getting in game shape game by game. It takes a while, but we get there,” he said.
On facing Phoenix’s physical defense, Antetokounmpo noted, “Feels good. I pretty much seen everything. I love the challenge. Obviously offensively I got to keep getting in my spot, but it doesn’t really matter what people do. I just love the challenge. I love playing hard.”
Reflecting on Phoenix’s consistent offensive strategy, he added, “They didn’t change the way they played. They keep doing a lot of goal screen, a lot of pass to the open guy, a lot of driving kicks. They didn’t stop playing the way they played, and I think that’s why they were able to stay in the game and take the lead.”
Giannis also praised the Bucks’ starting lineup cohesion, stating, “I like this group. Can switch, can rebound better. Guys are being selfless, playing our way. From Myles, from Kuz, from Ryan, from myself… obviously this is just the second time playing together, but I kind of like this group.”
When asked about Bam Adebayo’s 83-point performance for the Miami Heat, Giannis offered strong admiration. “I heard 83, incredible, incredible. Speaks volumes in his hard work. I haven’t seen the game. I have to watch the game and see. 36 of 43 from the line. Free throws. It doesn’t matter how you get it. All that means is you got it. At the end of the day, he got 83 points. And obviously, did they win? They did. Great way to help your team win a game,” he said.
Giannis emphasized Adebayo’s dedication: “Know Bam. He works his butt off every single day. He never cheats the game. Seeing a guy like him doing something like this is incredible.”
On teammate Kyle Kuzma reaching 10,000 career points, Antetokounmpo commented, “It’s incredible. Got the game ball. If you look at the 2017 draft class, he probably scored first or second most points in the draft class. Doesn’t matter what people say about you… if you stay consistent, you keep showing up every single day.”
Giannis concluded with a focus on effort over results: “Just got to keep getting in game shape. Teams don’t give two or three people double teams. It’s not something new. I think I’ll be more aggressive and get to my spot even better.”
The Bucks remain in sixth place in the Eastern Conference with a 27-37 record as they prepare for a challenging matchup against the Miami Heat on Thursday, while Phoenix begins a six-game road trip with momentum after improving to 38-27.
