Giannis Antetokounmpo refocuses Bucks with epic night against rumor-linked Knicks

The victory felt extra meaningful given the offseason rumors linking Giannis to New York. It also served as payback after the Bucks were swept 3-0 by the Knicks during the 2024-25 season series.

“Right now I’m here representing my team and that’s it. We beat the Knicks. So it doesn’t really matter. 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. But I didn’t read that article. I try to stay away from all that rumors, how do you call it, speculations and trade and all this. That doesn’t concern me one bit. I try to involve myself and try to help my team win games.” Giannis said when asked about the rumors linking him to New York, via PFN.

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s grudge against the Knicks

“The Knicks didn’t just sweep us. They beat us really really well. This year is different,” the Greek Freak continued.

Giannis has often found himself at the center of trade rumors, with the Knicks being just one of several teams tied to Milwaukee’s franchise star. Still, reports suggested New York would be the leading contender if Antetokounmpo ever decided to move on.

While many might think the trade rumors made this win sweeter for the Bucks, Giannis remains focused on the present season and was simply pleased with how the team earned the victory.

Ryan Rollins turned in a career-high 25 points while also recording four steals to spark the Bucks. Gary Trent Jr. was the only other Milwaukee player to finish in double digits, chipping in 11 points.

On the other side, Jalen Brunson paced the Knicks with 36 points but seemed to tweak his leg midway through the fourth quarter. Mikal Bridges added 24 points, though Milwaukee’s bench proved the difference, outscoring New York’s reserves 34-18. Karl-Anthony Towns struggled offensively, shooting just 2-for-11 from the floor despite pulling down 12 rebounds.

The victory pushed the Bucks to a 3-1 start this season. Up next, they’ll host the Golden State Warriors at Fiserv Forum before facing the Sacramento Kings.