By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks are one win away from securing the NBA championship. They went down 2-0 in the 2021 NBA Finals but three straight wins against the Phoenix Suns put them in a commanding position.
Antetokounmpo, 26, was not even expected to play in the NBA Finals after his recent knee injury. However, he has managed to recover to the point of dominating the best-of-seven series. He is the first player to average over 30 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists per contest while shooting over 60% field goals, per Stat Muse.
“He wants to do anything to win, and he’s not worried about the noise,” noted Bucks boss Mike Budenholzer after Game 5, “He is so incredibly focused on winning and making plays for his teammates and delivering.”
The Bucks leader marching towards the ultimate recognition of becoming an NBA champion has registered 32.2 points, 13.0 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game in the 2021 NBA Finals. His field goal shooting was set at 60.5% after making 14/23 in Game 5.
“The same randomness with the traps on the pick-and-rolls, they double-teamed him randomly on the block throughout the game and a couple times during the series,” pointed out sidekick Khris Middleton, “He’s been doing a great job knowing when he could sometimes beat it, and knowing when they are coming in, finding that outlet out and letting us attack on the back side and also knowing when they are not coming. He’s done a great job, for sure.”
The Suns have been unable to contain the Greek Freak. That was the case even when they were up 2-0. He was averaging 31.0 points, 14.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 2.0 blocks, and 1.5 steals per match over Game 1 and Game 2.
“He’s a different-sized dude,” explained Devin Booker, “So he, even if he’s boxing out, getting a hand on it is tough. So, you just have to put a body on him.”
The potential favorite to be named NBA Finals MVP was even on cue to seal the 3-2 lead on Saturday evening. Jrue Holiday made a steal to send his soaring teammate to the win-clinching dunk.
“They’re playing, they’re competing. That’s what we need,” said Budenholzer.
The Bucks can win their first NBA title since 1971 with a win at home on Tuesday.
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