Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo praises Gary Trent Jr. after standout performance in Game 3 against Pacers

The Milwaukee Bucks earned their first playoff win by defeating the Indiana Pacers 117–101. Unlike the two previous games, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s team showed more solidity on defense and stayed much better organized. Moreover, Damian Lillard returned and played 31 minutes, helping to bring balance to the squad. However, Gary Trent Jr stepped up and became Antetokounmpo’s best offensive partner throughout the night.

“You always want to have players that they’re gonna go out there, and go compete…And obviously, when you play defense, you get energy. When you see the ball go in, then you shoot more, and he was hot. I’ve been with the Bucks for a long time. I’ve never seen a guy make nine 3s in a playoff game…I’m very, very happy for him, but be humble in victory…He definitely helped the team get this one tonight, but we have another one in two days,” stated Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Buck fans have been asking for a player to step up and support Giannis Antetokounmpo. Gary Trent Jr answered the call and showcased his offensive skills. He matched the Greek star with 37 points and also added three rebounds. Now, if Trent Jr. can keep this impressive form in NBA Game 4, the Bucks will have a great chance to win and force a Game 5.

Giannis Antetokounmpo remains the driving force for the team to force a Game 5 and stay alive. In fact, the Greek superstar has scored 33 points or more in three of the last four games. Moreover, he has dominated beyond scoring, controlling the boards with authority. He has averaged at least 11 rebounds in each of the last five games. His ability to support in pressure situations has made a huge difference.

Gary Trent Jr. #5 of the Milwaukee Bucks celebrates against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the fourth quarter at Target Center on February 12, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Bucks defeated the Timberwolves 103-101.

Former NBA player Kendrick Perkins criticizes Bucks after narrow playoff win

The Milwaukee Bucks entered the season with championship aspirations. However, a series of injuries quickly derailed their momentum. They still managed to secure a playoff berth and arrived as clear favorites against the Indiana Pacers. Yet the narrative shifted dramatically when they lost the first two games and put their postseason hopes in serious jeopardy.

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Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo makes blunt analysis on their loss against Pacers

They bounced back with a win in Game 3, but criticism quickly followed. Former NBA player Kendrick Perkins delivered a scathing assessment of the team, pointing out a major flaw. “The Bucks are trash. The truth hurts. They’re trash…They’re a team that plays individual basketball, don’t play together, don’t compete,” stated on ESPN.

The Bucks depend heavily on individual performances, and that reality has become increasingly clear. Without Giannis Antetokounmpo’s offensive dominance, they would not have made it this far. Moreover, their team play continues to deteriorate.

Even so, Milwaukee’s individual talent gives them a chance to make a deep playoff run if they can pull together. Looking ahead, Doc Rivers faces the challenge of reshaping the team’s identity for next season.