Giannis Antetokounmpo issues rallying cry to Bucks ahead of stretch run
Giannis Antetokounmpo wants the Milwaukee Bucks to up their game. Coming into the season, they were seen as potential championship contenders. However, inconsistent performances have highlighted some cracks within the roster construction. One of the main issues facing Milwaukee is their lack of a defensive identity. Part of that issue may be down to trading away Jrue Holiday during the offseason.
Nevertheless, Giannis wants to see more from the Bucks. In a recent interview with The Athletic's Eric Nehm, he revealed he was tired of the team "feeling sorry" for themselves.
“I feel like I don’t want to look back and be like, ‘Damn, I had some great teams and I wasn’t able to get over the hump,’" Giannis said. "We have to stop feeling bad about ourselves. I’m tired of this. We have to stop doing that. Things are not going to be given to us. We have to go and take it. Like I’ve played with guys that never felt bad about themselves. Came in, did their job, went home, did their job, went home, did their job. That’s what we have to do. We’re not doing it right now, but hopefully we can do it.”
On paper, the Bucks have one of the strongest teams in the NBA. Giannis and Damian Lillard are a fearsome duo. Brook Lopez is among the best defensive big men in the NBA. And, when healthy, Khris Middleton is a feared marksman, both from the perimeter and when attacking in the mid-range.
Yet, this season, the Bucks have lacked a defensive mindset. They need to figure out who they are as a team. Otherwise, its inconsistent production will continue into the postseason. If that happens, Milwaukee could be facing a first or second-round exit. Considering the investment the front office made this summer, either of those outcomes would be a huge upset for the franchise.
Giannis is Milwaukee's leader. His comments are likely geared toward getting the best out of his teammates. He wants to win a championship. At the minimum, he wants to be competitive. Whether the Bucks can figure things out this season or not, Giannis will demand 100% effort and commitment. That starts with figuring things out on defense. From there, the rest will come.
More must-reads: