Giannis Antetokounmpo

Before the Milwaukee Bucks’ flight to Salt Lake City had even boarded, Giannis Antetokounmpo — sharing his thoughts from a loss before — stood amongst columnists with an ultimatum: “We’ve got to be locked in and set the tone early.” Given the number of Utah Jazz defenders that were left either floored or unbalanced after one of his physical bumps, it’s safe to say it was mission accomplished for Milwaukee’s superstar forward on January 27, 2025. Truly a man of his word, Antetokounmpo gets the party started with a tried-and-true pick-and-roll alongside his 12-year teammate before bouldering towards the paint with a pocket pass headed his way. Unafraid of any could-be challengers, Antetokounmpo leaves Micah Potter likely reconsidering his idea of contesting, extending his way into a disrespectful one-handed jam through contact, followed by a celebratory flex. In what became one of those nights in which each of Milwaukee’s stars had their offensive afterburners on, Antetokounmpo delivered his greatness through 35 points (on 16-of-23 shooting), alongside 18 rebounds, seven assists, two steals, and a victory.