Giannis Antetokounmpo got a first-hand experience with the NBA's instigator king when the Bucks faced off against the San Antonio Spurs on Friday.
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With 3:46 remaining in the fourth quarter, Antetokounmpo, guarded by Chris Paul in the paint, spun towards the basket and appeared to be shoved by the Spurs guard. Antetokounmpo had some choice words for Paul after he landed on his right hip and back, resulting in a brief skirmish between both teams.
dirty play by Chris Paul or is Giannis overreacting? pic.twitter.com/JdNS7XHFk0
— outbreezy (@outbreezyWC) February 1, 2025
The Greek Freak's frustrations extended into his postgame interview with reporters, when he sounded off on his and Paul's exchange.
"People that know me, they don't try me," Antetokounmpo told reporters after the game. "If you try me, it's a different side. If you try me, you're gonna get that different side of me."
Antetokounmpo took exception to Paul's dirty play but initially described it as "nothing" in his postgame interview.
"I gotta watch the tape," Antetokounmpo said. "I don't know if I was tripped or I was pushed. I don't know."
But once reporters asked about him hanging around after the buzzer sounded, the Bucks all-star elaborated on his frustrations.
Giannis told him I’m here and Chris paul couldn’t stand on business no more LMAOOOOOOOO
pic.twitter.com/WFzh95qhYf— Formerly GiannisWorld (@GiannisWorld_) February 1, 2025
"At the end of the day, I think we're all men. We all respect one another," Antetokounmpo said. "If words cross the line, then there's got to be consequences. I really don't say much. I don't say much to start with, try to play the game the right way."
Giannis added: "Like if I feel you're putting my livelihood and my career and my body in jeopardy, in danger, enough's enough, brother. I have a family to feed. And what makes you laugh can also make you cry sometimes."
