Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks' dynamic forward, has embraced a strategic shift that is redefining his game and enhancing his team's playoff aspirations. Known for his powerful drives and emphatic dunks, Antetokounmpo has added a new weapon to his arsenal: the midrange shot. This adjustment comes after a contemplative summer following the Bucks' playoff exit last May.
Antetokounmpo often quips about the complexities of international basketball, suggesting its rules present more challenges compared to the NBA. Perhaps this perspective influenced his decision to diversify his game. This season, he has focused on attacking, facilitating, and capitalizing on 15-footers, a strategy that reflects both personal and team growth.
"I know I'm going to make big 3's, big shots. But that's not my main focus," Antetokounmpo remarked. "My main focus is to attack, facilitate, get the 15-footers all day long. If I have 20 of them, I'm going to take all 20 of them."
This renewed focus is evident in the Bucks' post-All-Star break performance. The team has surged with a 7-1 record in their first eight games, showcasing the effectiveness of Antetokounmpo's evolved game plan.
Antetokounmpo's transformation began in Greece, where he dedicated himself to honing his midrange shot and minimizing physical tolls on his body. His collaboration with a skills coach was pivotal, crafting a jump shot that complements his on-court vision as an offensive nexus.
His efforts are yielding tangible results. This season, Antetokounmpo is averaging 30.8 points, 12.1 rebounds, and 5.9 assists on an impressive 60.5% shooting. Notably, he's attempting fewer than one three-pointer per game for the first time since the 2014-15 season.
Antetokounmpo's shift away from frequent three-point attempts signifies a strategic pivot. "Me shooting a bunch of 3s — which I would love; trust me, I love shooting the ball – but right now, that's not what my team needs from me," he explained.
Instead, he has embraced the midrange – a zone often neglected by players chasing analytics-driven shots like threes and dunks. However, Antetokounmpo's instincts and skill make this area a potent scoring zone.
"Him being able to shoot that shot just adds longevity," said Mavs coach Jason Kidd. "He doesn't have to deal with the pounding. Also, it just makes it a lot harder for an opponent. He's making that shot one-on-one. A lot of times you have to give up something."
Antetokounmpo has spent countless hours at the elbows of the paint, approximately 15-19 feet from the rim, executing shots and passes with precision. This positioning aligns with Bucks coach Doc Rivers' vision for utilizing Antetokounmpo's unique talents offensively.
"It's different," Antetokounmpo admitted. "Usually before when I had 18 points, it'd probably be nine drives and five dunks."
But now, he's mastering a new style – one that involves outsmarting defenders with minimal moves and creating opportunities for his teammates.
"Guys are giving it to me. I got to shoot it because it's less toll on my body. I got to shoot it, man," he stated.
Antetokounmpo's dedication to refining his midrange game underscores his commitment to both personal evolution and the Bucks' success. His ability to exploit this area has unlocked new dimensions for the team, proving that sometimes stepping back can propel forward.
"They are playoff shots in my opinion. And it is a shot that I believe I can make," Antetokounmpo affirmed.
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