Nothing’s been easy about the Damian Lillard, Giannis Antetokounmpo partnership. But the Milwaukee Bucks are finding their stride. Look no further than their Emirates NBA Cup title, clinched in a victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Dec. 17, than all the proof you need of how the two stars can coexist.
Antetokounmpo won the tournament MVP award after scoring 26 points, 19 rebounds, 10 assists, 3 blocks, and 2 steals. Lillard had a productive game as well, with 23 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and a steal. Milwaukee outrebounded Oklahoma City 52-43 while holding their offense to an average of 81 points per game.
When asked postgame about Lillard, and what it’s like playing next to him in meaningful games, Antetokounmpo was emphatic with his praise.
“This guy is one of the best players I’ve ever played with. Top-75, his resume speaks for itself,” Antetokounmpo told ESPN’s Malika Andrews.
“Coming into the game, we both did not feel 100 percent. But we grind, we grind. We knew that we had to do our job. We knew that our team needed us. Whenever I need this guy he’s always there for me. Whenever he needs me, I’m always there for him. We’ve got to keep on leading this team.
“We’ve got to keep on setting the table for others, making others better. Because the end of the day, me and him, we are going to be great. I’m so proud of him. Our chemistry is at the best it’s ever been, and it’s going to keep getting better with time.”
Milwaukee will have a few days to celebrate before returning to the floor on December 19 to face the 23-4 Cleveland Cavaliers. Tip-off is set at 7:30 p.m. EST.