In an unexpected twist, pun intended, of events, Giannis Antetokounmpo suited up for the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Tuesday.
Many observers thought Giannis would sit out the first few games against the Phoenix Suns after hyperextending his knee in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Atlanta Hawks.
But lo and behold, Giannis was available in Game 1. Not only that, surprisingly, the two-time MVP said he felt zero pain against the Suns. He admitted he thought he was totally done after their series versus the Hawks. Fortunately for Giannis, he recovered quicker than expected, and he's expecting to feel even better in Game 2.
Giannis Antetokounmpo said he thought he wrecked everything in his knee in Atlanta. As for tonight he said several times he felt no pain vs. the #Suns.
He said he can’t predict how he’ll be tomorrow, but expects to feel better in Game 2. pic.twitter.com/Rkw5okRjsC— Jim Owczarski (@JimOwczarski) July 7, 2021
Giannis didn't look bothered by his knee injury on Tuesday. He finished with a double-double of 20 points and 17 rebounds while adding four assists, two steals, and a block. He also made athletic plays that would've been very difficult to do for mere mortals coming off an injury.
The Bucks played well even without Giannis to close out the Hawks. But there's no question that The Greek Freak will be much needed against the red-hot Suns, who fired on all cylinders to take Game 1 convincingly.
Giannis was listed as doubtful for Game 1 but was upgraded to questionable early Tuesday. He worked out for several minutes before the contest and was given the green light to suit up.
Giannis Antetokounmpo wasn't on the floor when the Bucks advanced to the Last Dance. Now, he's making sure he won't miss out on anything in his first soiree in the NBA Finals.
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