In a game where the Milwaukee Bucks fell 116-107 to the New York Knicks, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s performance—30 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists—was not enough to secure the victory. The loss dropped the Bucks to a 40-33 record, highlighting the challenges they face in their quest to reclaim contender status in the NBA while falling behind the Knicks in the Eastern Conference standings. However, beyond the game’s outcome, Antetokounmpo’s remarks on a trending topic captured the attention of both the media and fans.
The discussion emerged following a recent comment by LeBron James on The Pat McAfee Show, where the legendary player claimed he would score “250 points per game” if he played in the NBA of the 1970s.
This statement sparked a passionate debate about comparing different basketball eras, and Antetokounmpo did not hesitate to share his thoughts. “Yes, I don’t know about that take… I think it’s a wrong take,” Antetokounmpo said, making his disagreement with James’ statement clear.
“I think if I played in the ’70s… probably more, 275… No, I’m joking,” he added with a smile. “Great compliment, but I don’t like comparing eras. It’s not fair. You know, if I played in the ’70s, with how everybody practiced and played, I would play the same way… The game evolves. We got to 2020, and we know more. People shoot the ball from half court… It’s totally different, so you cannot compare this era with that era.”
Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts after hitting a three-pointer during the second half against the Phoenix Suns at PHX Arena on March 24, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Jeremy Chen/Getty Images)
The debate of the ages in the NBA
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s response highlights a common perspective among many NBA players and analysts: the difficulty of comparing eras due to the game’s constant evolution.
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Respect for history and the current reality
The debate over comparing NBA eras is a recurring topic that fuels discussion among fans and experts. While it’s tempting to imagine legendary players competing across different time periods, the reality is that the game has changed dramatically. With his thoughtful perspective and focus on the present, Giannis Antetokounmpo demonstrates a deep understanding of the modern NBA and its ongoing evolution.
