Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Milwaukee Bucks to a 121-111 win against the New York Knicks, ending a frustrating five-game skid in their recent matchups. The two-time MVP dominated with 37 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists — a statement performance that reminded fans why he’s still the heart of Milwaukee’s ambitions.
Speaking after the game, Antetokounmpo admitted this matchup carried emotional weight and wasn’t just another regular-season fixture.
“For sure, it was a lot extra,” Antetokounmpo said after finishing with 37 points, eight rebounds and seven assists in the Bucks’ 121-111 victory Tuesday night. “They swept us last year. They were better than us last year. We didn’t make it tough on them. It was very easy. As a leader of this team, I remember. I don’t forget things.”
The Bucks had lost their last five meetings with the Knicks, including three heavy defeats last season by an average margin of over 20 points. Their struggles against elite Eastern Conference teams contributed to an early playoff exit — and with it, rising questions about Antetokounmpo’s future with the franchise.
Giannis Responds to Knicks Trade Talk
Ahead of the season, ESPN reported that Antetokounmpo’s representatives had informed Bucks management that New York was his preferred destination if a trade ever occurred. When asked about that rumor, Giannis remained tight-lipped.
“Right now I’m here representing my team, and that’s it,” Antetokounmpo said. “We beat the Knicks. What matters right now is we have a game in two days against Golden State. Try to stay locked in and get two in a row. I didn’t read that article. I try to stay away from all that rumors, speculation and trade and all this. It doesn’t concern me one bit.”
While the speculation persists, Antetokounmpo had previously clarified that he’s “locked in” with the Bucks but open to reassessing in the coming months. His focus, however, appears squarely on Milwaukee’s success this season.
Leadership on Display as Bucks Rally Back
During the third quarter, when the Bucks turned around a 12-point halftime deficit, Antetokounmpo was seen passionately declaring, “This is my city.” It was a moment that encapsulated his competitive fire.
“It’s just instincts,” Antetokounmpo said. “I’ve said the same, I’ve made the same comments in the past. Try not to read too much into things.”
The Bucks’ improved start — three wins in their first four games — stands in sharp contrast to last season’s slow beginning. Antetokounmpo’s explosive averages of 36.3 points, 14 rebounds, and 7 assists earned him the Eastern Conference Player of the Week honor.
“I love what I’m seeing,” Antetokounmpo said. “I think guys are playing to win, and this is what we are going to do this year. You know, this is why we’re here. This is why we wear this jersey.”
With their leader setting the tone both on and off the court, the Milwaukee Bucks seem determined to rewrite their story and push for a deeper playoff run in the 2025 NBA season.
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