The Milwaukee Bucks engaged the Los Angeles Lakers in an action-packed NBA preseason matchup on Thursday night. The Bucks had a 58-52 lead on the Lakers at halftime; however, before that point, an exciting transition play involving star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo and LeBron James got fans chattering.

With a little over 10 minutes left in the second quarter, LeBron James drove down the court in a solo effort and attempted a layup on Damian Lillard. But Antetokounmpo caught James and performed a monstrous block from the veteran’s blindside

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s defensive abilities come as no surprise. After all, he has made the NBA’s All-Defensive Team five times and been named Defensive Player of the Year once. Still, fans were impressed by his efforts against James:

“Giannis never fails to impress,” one fan commented on X (formerly Twitter).

“What an epic rejection! Giannis proves once again why he’s a defensive powerhouse. Can’t wait to see more action this season!” another fan added.

While fans were entertained by Antetokounmpo’s athletic defensive feat, others highlighted the irony of the block being on one of the best chase-down artists in the league in James.

“How’s it taste, old man?” one fan jokingly wrote about James alongside several laughing and deer emojis.

[Giannis Antetokounmpo] got his lick back [on James],” another fan added.

By the time the Bucks started the third quarter, three minutes in, Antetokounmpo had already racked up 20 points, seven rebounds, and two assists. It’s wonderful to see the talented forward back in good health and use the court.

Due to an unlucky calf injury in April, Antetokounmpo was unable to participate in the 2024 NBA Playoffs. Because of this, the Bucks had less firepower and lost the opening round to the Indiana Pacers. Nevertheless, Milwaukee hopes to exact revenge on their 2023–24 season and go far in 2024–25 with Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, and Khris Middleton all back at full strength.