Notebook: Greek Freak Topples Knicks

Giannis Antetokounmpo Slays Knicks

Giannis Antetokounmpo hit his first career game-winning shot … at Madison Square Garden in front of a packed house, no less. The Greek Freak, who finished with 27 points and 13 rebounds, closed the deal himself after a play designed for Jason Terry didn’t come to fruition.

“The play was for (Jason Terry),” said Antetokounmpo. “I was looking for Jet. He wasn’t open so I had to shoot the ball. I was patient. I knew I could shoot the ball over the top of anybody at any time. I wanted to make sure I took the last shot.

“I didn’t feel nothing for the next, like, five seconds, until one of my teammates grabbed me, and I was like, ‘Oh, wow. Won the game? Good. Let’s go home. Let’s get out of here,'” he said. “Feels good because everybody wanted this win so bad.

Should The Greek Freak’s Buzzer Beater Have Counted?

The Knicks, and their fans, questioned whether the Greek Freak’s shot should even have counted. They claim there should have been a 5-second Back to the Basket violation called. NBA rules state that if a player dribbles with his back — or side — to the basket below the free throw line extended for more than five seconds, it should be a turnover.

According to Ian Begley of ESPN.com, Knicks’ forward Carmelo Anthony referenced it in his post-game comments.

“I thought he had the ball for seven, eight seconds in his hand. That’s a different story,” Anthony said.

Antetokounmpo Cleared For Takeoff

It was all about Giannis Antetokounmpo at MSG.

Before his game-winning exploits, the Bucks’ forward showed off some of the freakish athleticism with a couple of spectacular dunks, including one from about a foot inside the free-throw line with Carmelo Anthony hot on his trail.

“I knew Melo was trailing me and would try to foul me so I tried to take off as far as I can,” he said.

Indeed he did.

Feature Image: AP