Giannis Antetokounmpo disappointed Milwaukee Bucks won’t play on Christmas Day
Giannis Antetokounmpo, nicknamed the “Nigerian Freak,” has expressed disappointment that the Milwaukee Bucks will not feature in the NBA’s Christmas Day games this year.
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For nearly 80 years, the NBA has scheduled exciting matchups on Christmas Day, showcasing some of the league’s best players. In recent years, the Milwaukee Bucks, led by Antetokounmpo, have been regular participants, playing on December 25 for the past six seasons.
However, this year marks the first time since 2017 that the Bucks will not play on Christmas Day. Despite being one of the NBA’s top teams, Doc Rivers’ squad has been excluded from the five games scheduled for December 25, 2024.
In an interview with The Athletic, Antetokounmpo shared his frustration. “There’s gotta be an algorithm because if it’s — how can I say — like a popularity contest, I can give you facts,” he said.
He continued, “Two of the NBA All-Star starters, (Damian Lillard) and Giannis, and the All-Star MVP, right? And the No. 1 vote-getter — not in the East, in the whole NBA — is not in the Christmas game? What?”
Antetokounmpo’s frustration is understandable. The Bucks have consistently been one of the league’s strongest teams, and with stars like Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, many fans expected them to play on the festive day.
For now, Bucks fans will have to wait for other opportunities to watch their team in marquee matchups this season.
