Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered another stellar performance, leading the Milwaukee Bucks to a hard-fought 125-119 victory over the Charlotte Hornets in an NBA Eastern Conference matchup.
Antetokounmpo, known as the “Nigerian Freak,” scored 32 points and grabbed 11 rebounds to secure the win, while LaMelo Ball’s career-high 50 points kept the Hornets within striking distance.
The Bucks appeared to be cruising with a 110-90 lead following a 14-5 run early in the fourth quarter. However, the Hornets stormed back, with Brandon Miller sinking a crucial three-pointer to cut the deficit to 121-119 with 15 seconds left.
Taurean Prince responded under pressure, converting two free throws to give Milwaukee a four-point cushion. With just 4.5 seconds remaining, Antetokounmpo sealed the game with two more free throws, denying Charlotte any chance of an upset.
The victory marks the Bucks’ sixth win in their last seven games, including a perfect 4-0 homestand. Their only blemish during this stretch was a narrow 115-114 defeat.
Antetokounmpo also made headlines for his post-game celebration, imitating the signature move of Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres, who plays for Sporting Lisbon. A photo of the celebration has since gone viral, drawing parallels between the basketball superstar and one of football’s most sought-after players.
Reflecting on the Bucks’ momentum, Antetokounmpo’s dominant play continues to fuel Milwaukee’s rise in the Eastern Conference standings, keeping fans excited about their championship aspirations.