NBA tensions rise: From Draymond Green's suspension to Antetokounmpo's record game amidst on‑court brawl
8:22 AM EST, December 15, 2023
Throughout the present NBA season, it's evident that players often struggle to maintain their composure. The initial controversies involving Draymond Green erupted in November, during a match between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Golden State Warriors. The game barely started when Klay Thompson and Jaden McDaniels entangled in a skirmish, resulting in torn jerseys.
Klay Thompson was quickly apprehended by Rudy Gobert. The French player was promptly confronted by Draymond Green, who intervened by putting him in a chokehold, reminiscent of MMA. Consequently, one of the Golden State Warriors' key players was suspended for five games.
After a few weeks, Draymond Green again found himself in hot water. During a match against the Phoenix Suns, Green was dismissed from the court for hitting Jusuf Nurkic in the head.
Conflict involving the Greek player
The following altercation took place in Thursday's match between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Indiana Pacers, with Giannis Antetokounmpo falling victim to a rough tackle.
A player from the Indiana Pacers' team gripped Giannis by the stomach and hurled him to the floor. The event triggered a brawl on the court, with Giannis's brother stepping in to defend him. However, teammates intervened to temper his aggression. The entire altercation was recorded and featured on social media.
Despite the altercation, Antetokounmpo scored a staggering 64 points against the Pacers and accounted for 14 rebounds. He achieved 20 out of 28 field shots and 24 out of 32 free throws.
"He's an unstoppable player. Nobody can go one-on-one with him," emphasized Bucks' coach Adrian Griffin during a media interaction. "He possesses immense talent and potential, paired with a passion for the sport. He's always striving for victory and is dedicated to achieving it," Griffin added about his star player.
