Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo remains confident despite the 0-2 deficit, emphasizing that it’s still a long series and that Milwaukee must now protect home court to shift the momentum.
The Milwaukee Bucks failed to even the series in their first-round playoff matchup, falling to the Indiana Pacers 123-115 in Game 2.
Despite a dominant performance from Giannis Antetokounmpo, who posted 34 points and 18 rebounds, the Bucks now find themselves down 0-2 as the series shifts to Milwaukee.
After the game, the two-time MVP emphasized the importance of holding serve at home and keeping the team focused on the task ahead.
| Player of the Game | |
|
EFF
31
|
| Pascal Siakam | |
| Points | 24 |
| Accuracy | 8-16 |
| Rebounds | 11 |
| Assists | 3 |
"It’s a long series," Giannis said. "It's first to four. They protected their home court—now we have to go home and do our job. We all know what the deal is. We have to be ready for Game 3 and take care of business."
When asked about the familiarity between the two teams and whether it plays a role in the series, Giannis downplayed any personal rivalries. His focus, he said, is strictly on doing whatever it takes to win.
"People say we’ve played them 20 times—I don’t know, maybe it’s been 14 for me since I missed last year. I try not to get caught up in the back-and-forth or animosity," Giannis explained.
"I’m just a competitor. I’m not going to come out here and say I don’t like anybody. Off the court, we can be cool. On the court, I’m locked in. I’m trying to win, trying to take care of my family," he added.
"If someone pokes me, I’m not backing down. But honestly, I don’t care what they think or what people say. My mind is on Game 3. I know the fu**ing deal. I just know the deal," he concluded.
