Author: Monojit Mandal
Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo isn’t known for making headlines, but his latest social media post has caused a bit of a shock in the NBA. The reigning NBA Defensive Player of the Year was left off the NBA’s 1st and 2nd defensive teams and expressed his dissatisfaction on Instagram and Twitter.
“I’m tired of being disrespected. “I’m going,” wrote Antetokounmpo, using exceptionally aggressive language. The message, which was accompanied by a photo of the athlete looking severe, went viral instantly.
Antetokounmpo received 16 votes for the first team and 28 votes for the second team, but it wasn’t enough to make either team. This is the first time Antetokounmpo hasn’t been named to an all-defensive team since the 2015-2016 season.
Despite their negligence, the Bucks had a strong presence in the all-defensive teams. The team had two first-team players, Jrue Holiday and Brook Lopez, becoming the first NBA team to achieve this feat.
Considering his history, Antetokounmpo’s discontent is reasonable. With the exception of this year, he has been a member of the first and second defense teams every year since the 2016-2017 season. Antetokounmpo also received the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award for 2019-2020.
Although Antetokounmpo’s defensive qualities weren’t recognized in the awards, he had an exceptional season. He was nominated for the MVP award after finishing in the top five in points and rebounds. However, he came third in the vote.
The Bucks boasted one of the best defenses in the league during the regular season, but that didn’t carry over to the playoffs. The Miami Heat beat them in the first round with the Bucks, conceding 124 points per game – almost 11 points more than their regular season average.
Fans are wondering what Antetokounmpo’s social media post means for the upcoming season. Will Giannis, known for his tough attitude on the court, become more aggressive? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the rest of the NBA better keep an eye on him.
A symbolic five for playing defense against the NBA 2022/2023 (All-Defensive teams).
The top five: Jaren Jackson (Memphis), Drew Holiday (Milwaukee), Brooke Lopez (Milwaukee), Alex Caruso (Chicago), Evan Mobley (Cleveland).
Second Five: Draymond Green (Golden State), Derrick White (Boston), Bam Adebayo (Miami), Dillon Brooks (Memphis), Oji Anunobi (Toronto).
Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson received the most votes to be included in the top five (96). Bucks players Lopez and Holiday received 94 and 85 votes respectively.