NBA News NBA News, Match Reports and Updates
A wild tale narrated by Jeff Teague about Thanasis Antetokounmpo has recently gained traction on social media.
During a podcast discussion, the former NBA player and champion with the Milwaukee Bucks recounted how Thanasis made himself available for Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks after they found themselves in a 2-0 deficit in the 2021 NBA Finals.
“Giannis’ brother was sidelined with COVID when we were down 0-2, so he couldn’t board the plane. That’s part of the reason we were in that hole. Giannis was really struggling. There’s a unique bond between him and his brother that plays a significant role; he’s not the same without his brother around. I’m serious, it’s different,” Teague shared about the siblings’ dynamics and its influence on the team’s performance. “We were in the midst of a game, and I’m like, dude, we’re in the Finals, just play…”
After starting the best-of-seven series against the Phoenix Suns with two losses, the Bucks, under coach Mike Budenholzer, rallied to win four consecutive games and secure the championship.
“Where’s TA?” Teague remembered Giannis continually asking, “TA made this COVID recovery feel almost magical. I knew he was still infected; there’s no way around it. 14 days for recovery, but he was back in three. His energy was infectious—he was running around the locker room, ignoring COVID, shouting and hyping everyone up. I realized then how crucial he was for our team. Things just didn’t click without him. But when he was present, everything fell into place. Even with the celebrations afterwards, he had to take a solo ride during the parade due to his COVID situation.”
Bro… if Thanasis Antetokounmpo had properly quarantined, Chris Paul could’ve snagged a ring. pic.twitter.com/zkAMTSSDf5
— Literate Hunter (@iamJ_A_M) March 15, 2025
Currently, Thanasis is recovering from recent rehabilitation, with his contract ending after the 2023-24 season, leaving him an unrestricted free agent.
Stay updated with the latest news.
