Milwaukee Bucks: 5 takeaways from resilient Game 7 triumph

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 19: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks celebrates the win of game seven of the Eastern Conference second round at Barclays Center on June 19, 2021 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Brooklyn Nets 115-111 in overtime to win the series. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

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1. Giannis Antetokounmpo proved he’s capable of being the No. 1 option on a title-contending Milwaukee Bucks team

Throughout Giannis Antetokounmpo’s spectacular ongoing career, there have still been shades of criticism directed his way regarding his ability to lead a team to a championship. Even though he’s a two-time MVP and Defensive Player of the Year at 26 years old, the media seems to enjoy launching bullets at Antetokounmpo whether it relates to his skills or mental state of mind.

Based on the lack of postseason success within the last few years, it was understandable. However, all the talk about Antetokounmpo not being a No.1 option on a title-contending team should be permanently put to bed after his dominance in Game 7 and throughout this thrilling series.

On Saturday night, Giannis became the first player in NBA history to record at least 40 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists in a Game 7 victory, per Basketball-Reference. During the seven-game series, Antetokounmpo averaged 31.9 points on 57.4 percent field goals, 12.9 rebounds, and 3.6 assists across 40.0 minutes per game.

There’s no doubt that he rose to the occasion with the season on the line while going head-to-head against the greatest scorer of this generation and arguably the best player in the world right now, Kevin Durant. Most importantly, Antetokounmpo carried his team to bona fide success this time around rather than sour disappointment.

Antetokounmpo left no regrets, dripped blood and sweat, and led by example out there when the Milwaukee Bucks needed him most. Giannis has shown that he’s prepared to make the Bucks a championship-worthy team, and he’ll have a very good chance of accomplishing that ultimate goal this season as he continues to build upon his promising legacy.

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