Top 10 memories of Giannis Antetokounmpo No. 8: Buzzer Beater at Madison Square Garden
On January 4, 2017, Giannis made his first career game winner against the Knicks. Every superstar has game-winning baskets that put their greatness on display. In this case, Giannis knocked down a tough step-back jumper, showing off his clutch ability for the first time. Making your first buzzer beater is a huge confidence boost and could be the very reason Giannis is now unfazed by big moments at this stage in his career.
Giannis pounded his dribble with his back to the basket from the baseline to straight away against Lance Thomas and used his long strides to step back around the free throw line and hit a jumper that pushed the Milwaukee Bucks to a 105-104 lead.
Top 10 memories of Giannis Antetokounmpo No. 7: Giannis Leaps Over Tim Hardaway Jr.
Another moment that no doubt haunts New York Knicks fans. In my eyes, this play embodies the Greek Freak nickname. The world-famous alley-oop dunk over Tim Hardaway Jr. in Madison Square Garden is one of the best dunks of the last decade and will certainly be a play that never gets old. Khris Middleton stole a cross court pass and took off down the floor, Giannis running alongside him and Hardaway Jr. unfortunately caught in between.
Also unforgettable is hearing Gus Johnson’s call, his genuine reaction just adds another layer to the great play, as does the face of John McEnroe. Other than the dunk contest there aren’t many times where you see a player leap completely over someone, so the fact that he does this in a game is a testament to his athleticism.