Before Game 5 of the NBA Finals on Saturday, Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks were hit by a rather frustrating news: Thanasis Antetokounmpo was ruled out due to health and safety protocols.
Given how close they are, Giannis was naturally sad that his brother wasn't able to be with them in what turned out to be an exciting showdown. The Greek Freak admitted as much, though he said they always need to their job at the end of the day.
“It was extremely difficult because I know how bad he wanted to be here and to help the team, be around the team and cheer for the team and give the energy that he always gives to everybody, because everybody feels his energy,” the Bucks star said, per NBC Sports. “But at the end of the day we have to do our job. We have to come out here and try to play good basketball, try to win the game.”
It is still unknown if the older Antetokounmpo brother will be allowed to play in Game 6 in Milwaukee, but there isn't much time left since there's only a two-day gap between Game 5 and the next contest.
For what it's worth, Giannis made light of his brother's situation and even joked about what was probably his reaction after watching the Bucks' clutch win on Saturday.
“Just because I know him a little better, he’s probably screaming in front of the TV, and probably in the last possession, he probably took his shirt off and started playing defense, sweating, jumping on the bed,” Giannis shared while laughing.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks are certainly hoping Thanasis will be with them on Tuesday. But regardless of the situation, they will surely look to close things in Game 6 at home to lift the Larry O'Brien trophy.
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