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Giannis Antetokounmpo's Bucks Teammate Reacts to Stephen A. Smith's Criticism

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Jun 16, 2025 11:47 PM ET

ESPN's Stephen A. Smith is known for his absurd takes regarding the NBA. However, his recent take about the Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo wasn't received well by fans and even players. Since winning the NBA title in 2021, Antetokounmpo and the Bucks have not been competitive in the league, getting eliminated in the first round the past three seasons.

The Bucks have tried to give the Greek Freak enough help, trading for Damian Lillard in 2023 and acquiring Kyle Kuzma from the Washington Wizards at the 2025 NBA trade deadline. However, injuries have affected Milwaukee, including Lillard's torn ACL in the most recent playoffs.

Because of the Bucks' inability to contend for another championship, Smith had a controversial take about the Greek basketball star. According to the longtime analyst, Antetokounmpo is an "underachiever" if he fails to win another title.

The All-Star's teammate, Bobby Portis Jr., appeared as a guest on FanDuel TV's "Run It Back" on Monday. He expressed his disappointment in Smith for calling the Bucks star an underachiever.

"Basketball is a team sport, we've just been very unlucky over the last four years," Portis said. "Every year in the playoffs, we have somebody hurt."

Michelle isn’t feeling Stephen A.Smith’s take on Giannis pic.twitter.com/rZ8FwBsm8Q
— Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) June 16, 2025

While the Bucks have struggled with injuries to their players, Antetokounmpo has remained loyal and determined to the organization. However, the team doesn't have a deep roster that could help the nine-time All-Star.

Milwaukee is still willing to contend for a championship with Antetokounmpo as their leader. Amid all the trade talk around the two-time MVP, there's a belief he will remain with the Bucks moving forward.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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