The Milwaukee Bucks’ star, Giannis Antetokounmpo, isn’t one to stay silent, especially when it comes to a glaring omission in the NBA’s 2024-25 schedule. With the league dropping a teaser for the much-anticipated Christmas Day matchups, basketball fans were buzzing. But amidst the excitement, one name was conspicuously missing, leaving the “Greek Freak” and Bucks fans seething with anger over what seems like yet another example of NBA’s Favoritism.
No Bucks on Christmas? NBA’s Favoritism Under Fire
A Christmas Without the Bucks?
NBA insider Shams Charania unveiled the league’s projected Christmas Day 2024 lineup, featuring some classic showdowns: Spurs vs. Knicks, Timberwolves vs. Mavericks, 76ers vs. Celtics, Lakers vs. Warriors, and Nuggets vs. Suns. But where were the Bucks, the champions of 2021, and arguably one of the league’s most electrifying teams? Nowhere to be seen.
Giannis, known for his fiery passion, took to social media to express his disbelief. His response? A simple but pointed “No Christmas game?!” accompanied by a couple of laughing emojis. The message was loud and clear: how could the NBA overlook a team that has been a staple on Christmas Day for the last five years?
Bucks Fans Feel the Heat
For the Bucks, Christmas Day games have become something of a tradition. Since the 2017-18 season, Milwaukee has graced the December 25th stage every year, showcasing the brilliance of Giannis and, more recently, the added firepower of Damian Lillard. Even though the Bucks’ 2-3 record in these games isn’t stellar, their presence has been a testament to their status as one of the NBA’s elite teams.
The fact that the Bucks are the only team with a championship since 2019-20 not featured in this year’s lineup is a slap in the face. It’s almost as if the NBA is saying, “You’re good, but not good enough.” The exclusion reeks of favoritism, with the league seemingly more interested in promoting certain star-studded matchups, regardless of recent performances.
Lakers vs. Warriors: Overhyped?
Sure, the LeBron vs. Curry duel draws ratings, but should it come at the expense of a team like Milwaukee? The Lakers and Warriors, both participants in last season’s Play-In Tournament, don’t exactly scream “elite.” Yet, here they are, stealing the spotlight, while the Bucks are left out in the cold.
This snub might just be the fuel Milwaukee needs to kick off the season with a vengeance. The Bucks are currently +1300 to win the 2024-25 NBA Finals according to FanDuel Sportsbook, ranking ninth overall. With Giannis’ competitive fire now stoked even further, the league might regret sidelining the Bucks when December 25 rolls around.
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