Antetokounmpo’s Record-Breaking Night Sparks Rivalry with Pacers
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s career-high 64 points in a December 13th game against the Indiana Pacers should have been a moment of triumph. However, a heated exchange between the two teams over the game ball and the Pacers’ failure to shake hands after the buzzer has sparked a simmering rivalry. The Bucks and Pacers will face off again on New Year’s Day and Wednesday, marking their fifth meeting of the season.
The Battle for the Game Ball
As the final seconds ticked off the clock, both Antetokounmpo and the Pacers were vying for possession of the game ball. Antetokounmpo wanted it to commemorate his record-setting night, while the Pacers wanted to give it to rookie Oscar Tshiebwe, who scored his first career regular-season point that night. The ball was eventually secured by a Bucks staffer, but the heated exchange and the Pacers’ failure to shake hands left a sour taste.
A Sign of Disrespect
Antetokounmpo was also upset that the Pacers stormed off the court without shaking hands, viewing it as a sign of disrespect. The Pacers, on the other hand, felt that the Bucks were running up the score in garbage time, which they considered disrespectful. The heated exchange and its aftermath have set the stage for a burgeoning rivalry between the two teams.
In-Season Tournament Adds Fuel to the Fire
The Bucks and Pacers faced off in the in-season tournament, with the Pacers beating the Bucks in their first two meetings. The tournament provided an opportunity for the Pacers to showcase their top-ranked offense, led by Tyrese Haliburton, who has been putting up impressive numbers. The tournament added extra intensity to the games between the two teams and fueled the rivalry.
Looking Ahead
While both teams acknowledge the increased intensity in their matchups this season, they are hesitant to label it as a full-fledged rivalry. The Bucks have been dominant in their recent meetings with the Pacers, but a potential playoff matchup could change the dynamics. If the seeds hold, the two teams could face off in the postseason for the first time since 2000, adding another layer of excitement to the rivalry.