By Antonis Stroggylakis/ info@eurohoops.net
Did last night’s performance by Giannis Antetokounmpo (27 points with 4/5 threes, apart from 7 rebounds and 7 assists) against the Boston Celtics, marked the birth of a shooter? Or shall we be considering it simply as an important stage of an incubation period in process, for now?
Whatever the case might be, Giannis is definitely on a steady path of becoming someone who should not be trifled with when he lifts up his body, ready to pull up the jumper from beyond the arc. Τhe 4/5 three-pointers he scored in Boston, combined with a 2/4 versus the Cleveland Cavaliers, are good enough to make him and all the Bucks‘ affiliates feel quite content watching the signs of possible things to come. At the same time, the sound of these numbers rings in an ominous tone to the ears of his opponents.
“If he starts making threes at a regular rate, then watch out” admitted the Celtics coach, Brad Stevens “How many did he have coming into the game?”
Of course, Stevens knew the answer. “The Greek Freak” had made only 21 of his 93 three-point attempts, before the match between the Bucks and the Celtics. So far in April, Giannis shoots with an impressive 7/11 from downtown. He still has three games left in the season to expand this streak of high percentages from behind the arc. That would add another brick on the skyscraper of confidence, that is being built inside him.
“Coach told me when I’m open shoot it”, said Giannis Antetokounmpo after the game. “I’m just trying to work, knowing there are days when I am going to make them, and there are going to be days where I’m not.” I’ve just got to stay confident and believe in myself and keep shooting them because that’s the only way I’m going to get better.”