By Stefan Djordjevic/ info@eurohoops.net
The Milwaukee Bucks struggled in the first half against the Miami Heat, trailing by 17 points at the break, but they managed to turn it around for the win. And Giannis Antetokounmpo believes it all comes from defense.
“Starting the game, we were putting our focus more offensively. That’s not who we are. We managed to focus in the second half, play harder. Our offense starts from defense. When we are able to defend, rotate, make them take tough threes or twos, we are able to rebound and run.”
He also added that “holding each other accountable is big” and while his opinion of the Eastern Conference is high, noting that they can’t underestimate anyone, Giannis believes that the Bucks themselves are the biggest obstacle on the way to the title.
“I think the biggest challenge for us is ourselves. How are we going to play? How hard are we going to play? Are we going to play for one another? Are we going to defend hard? Are we going to be able to rebound the ball? Are we going to be able to make the extra effort? Are we going to dive on the floor? It’s all about us. It’s all about us.”
The Greek star also praised his teammates who had to cope against the Heat without him when he was out due to foul trouble: “They were playing amazing, they were moving the ball, playing faster and faster, going downhill, making the right play. Happy to see that. I was trying to get in their rhythm when I got back in. It’s good to see that.”