Giannis Antetokounmpo did not hide what Tuesday night meant to him. After the Milwaukee Bucks 121–111 win over the New York Knicks, the Milwaukee star made it clear this one was personal.
“They were way better than us last year,” Giannis said after posting 37 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists. “It was very easy in my opinion. And as the leader of this team, I remember. I don’t forget things.”
The Knicks swept the Bucks 3–0 last season, beating them by an average of 22 points. It was one of the few times Antetokounmpo’s team looked outmatched. Coming into this game, that sting hadn’t faded. From shootaround to tipoff, Giannis said he reminded his teammates exactly what had happened.
History says….
For the first half, it looked like history might repeat itself. New York built a 14-point lead and was getting whatever it wanted on offense. But then Giannis took over.
The third quarter turned into a one-man show, with 14 points, 4 assists, and a block on Mikal Bridges that led to a thunderous dunk the other way. Giannis pointed to himself, motioned to the crowd, and shouted what fans in Milwaukee already know: “This is my city.”
Historical night
He’s now the first player in NBA history to score at least 30 points on 60% shooting in each of his first four games to start a season, a mark of his dominance and efficiency.
MORE: Giannis took 6 steps and didn’t get called for a travel
The win also sent a message beyond the box score. Last season, the Bucks went 0–9 against the top three seeds in the East, Cleveland, Boston, and New York. Tuesday’s comeback wasn’t just about revenge, it was about rewriting that story.
Giannis brushed off any offseason talk linking him to the Knicks, saying his focus is on Milwaukee’s next game. “What matters right now is we have a game in two days against Golden State,” he said. “Try to stay locked in and get two in a row.”
Milwaukee fans didn’t need him to say it though. Giannis doesn’t forget, and this win proved it. The Bucks are now 3-1 on the season while the Knicks have dropped to 2-2.
More NBA news:
