Pacers Cave In To Giannis' Cravings

Missing NBA action while ill, he helps the Bucks overturn a 19-point deficit on his return

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Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo said he was "craving" National Basketball Association (NBA) competition after being sick for some time, and when he gets into that mood, there is no stopping him.

On Dec 31, the Bucks erased a 19-point deficit, pulling away late on to beat the Indiana Pacers 120-112 on the road, as the NBA champions Boston Celtics closed out 2024 with a 125-71 home demolition of the Toronto Raptors.

Antetokounmpo, back after missing four games because of an illness, found his rhythm after scoring just four points in the first half, finishing with 30 points and 12 rebounds. Brook Lopez added 16 points and reserves Bobby Portis and Gary Trent Jr. scored 14 points each for Milwaukee, who trailed 83-64 midway through the third quarter.

Damian Lillard scored just nine points but put the Bucks ahead for good with a three-pointer that made it 107-104 with 5min 17sec remaining.

"Obviously I was out of rhythm, I wasn't able to do a lot for nine days. Yesterday I was fortunate enough to have like 45 minutes of practice," said Antetokounmpo.