In a dominant 141–117 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, Milwaukee Bucks showcased their depth with reserves seeing substantial playing time. However, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee’s star player, stole the moment as embraced the celebratory atmosphere, adding a unique twist.
With the Bucks comfortably leading 136–107 and 2:47 left on the clock, Pelicans’ Naji Marshall stepped up to the free-throw line. The crowd erupted after he missed the first free throw, anticipating free chicken wings from Wingstop for the fans if both shots were unsuccessful.
Giannis Antetokounmpo joins the Bucks fans for free chicken wings
When Marshall missed the second free throw, fans celebrated, prompting Giannis Antetokounmpo to join the excitement. He embarked on a quest for his cell phone and, upon locating it, scanned the QR code associated with the promotion, ensuring he claimed his free wings alongside the ecstatic fans.
Giannis scanning the QR code to get his free wings after the Pelicans miss two free throws pic.twitter.com/J2ZTQxCmLB
— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) January 28, 2024
Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the charge with 30 points and 12 rebounds. Under interim head coach Joe Prunty, who took over after the firing of Adrian Griffin, the Bucks shot an impressive 56%, securing their second win in three games. Antetokounmpo praised Prunty’s response, emphasizing his coaching capabilities despite never having been a head coach in the league before.
Giannis Antetokounmpo w meczu z Pelicans:
– 30 PTS
– 12 REB
– 4 AST
– 2 STL
– 69% FG
– 100% 3PGiannis (237) wyprzedził Kareema Abdul-Jabbara w liczbie 30+ punktowych występów w historii Bucks. pic.twitter.com/CuhGrSfaQR
— NBA Poland (@NBAPolska23) January 28, 2024
The Pelicans, seeking a rebound after a previous loss, struggled against the Bucks. Brandon Ingram scored 26 points, and Zion Williamson contributed 23, but it wasn’t enough to counter the Bucks’ dominance. Milwaukee capitalized on the Pelicans’ tired legs in a back-to-back scenario, leading by as much as 34 points and showcasing their resilience on zero days’ rest. Pelicans coach Willie Green acknowledged his team’s lackluster performance and emphasized the need for improved fight and accountability. The game marked the return of Williamson after missing a game because of a left foot bone bruise.
In their next matchup, new head coach Doc Rivers will make his debut as the Bucks face the reigning champion Denver Nuggets. The Bucks, having won seven of their last nine games, displayed notable energy and cohesion in recent performances. Brook Lopez contributed 24 points, connecting on 6 of 9 three-point attempts, while Bobby Portis added 20 points.
Giannis Antetokounmpo says the first NBA game he remembers watching on TV had Doc Rivers coaching the Boston Celtics in the 2008 Finals. Rivers now gets to coach Antetokounmpo as they try to bring another title to Milwaukee https://t.co/bHIs6GPUse
— Steve Megargee (@stevemegargee) January 28, 2024
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s playful involvement and spontaneity in enjoying a blowout win off the court further solidified his reputation for bringing entertainment both on and off the basketball court. The game not only showcased the Bucks’ on-court prowess but also the camaraderie and light-heartedness among the team’s stars during a commanding victory.
Read more: Boosie Badazz Got His Jersey Signed By Luka Doncic After A Career-high 73 Point Against The Hawks
