Giannis Antetokounmpo, the standout player for the Milwaukee Bucks, was incensed by the Indiana Pacers’ unexpected play at the conclusion of their game on Tuesday. The Greek Freak was so enraged that, at the end, he got into a furious argument with Tyrese Haliburton.
During his explosive performance in the game, Antetokounmpo scored 64 points, setting a new Milwaukee single-game record and making it his best-ever night. The Bucks won easily, 140-126, and the Pacers just had no answer for him. After the game, Giannis was naturally looking for the game ball that he had created history with, but Indiana ended up taking it.
The two-time NBA MVP rushed to the tunnel leading to Fiserv Forum in an attempt to get the ball out of his rage. Giannis was obviously upset that he didn’t receive the ball back then, and when he came back to the floor, he and Haliburton got into a heated argument.
Giannis may have said something, but judging by his expression, it wasn’t a positive one.
During his press conference following the game, Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle clarified that they grabbed the ball because rookie Oscar Tshiebwe was scoring his first NBA point and there was a misunderstanding on his end. But given how rough and tumble the game was from start to finish—Aaron Nesmith even gave Giannis Antetokounmpo a harsh foul late in the game—it’s understandable why some thought Indiana intentionally stole the ball.
The game ball was later found by the security staff, which is wonderful news for Antetokounmpo and the Bucks.
But given what transpired, anticipate a fierce game in the Bucks and Pacers’ upcoming encounter. Fans should mark January 1 and 3 on their calendars as those are the dates of their next two games.