UPDATE: In a thrilling moment of sportsmanship, Giannis Antetokounmpo intervened after the Los Angeles Lakers’ 119-95 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on November 11, 2023. The Lakers secured the win, but the real drama unfolded postgame as players scrambled for the game ball to celebrate rookie Adou Thiero‘s first NBA points.
Thiero made an impact in his debut, scoring four points, including a spectacular dunk in the closing moments. However, chaos ensued when Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt attempted to keep the game ball for Thiero. Referee Pat Fraher stepped in, seizing the ball and taking it to center court, claiming it belonged to the Bucks.
“I went to grab the ball,” Vanderbilt explained. “The rookie scored his first points, that’s what happens in the league.” Fraher insisted that the ball was not Vanderbilt’s to give away, leaving Lakers players stunned. Guard Austin Reaves expressed disbelief at the referee’s stance, noting, “I’ve never heard that.”
The situation escalated when Fraher mentioned he would discipline Vanderbilt for his actions. “He said he’s going to write me up… I don’t know what the hell he’s talking about,” Vanderbilt told ESPN, adding, “These refs, they just want to have their power or something.”
In a heartwarming turn, Antetokounmpo took charge of the situation. He took the game ball from the Bucks’ team attendant and handed it to Lakers star Luka Doncic, showcasing true class. “That shows a lot of class,” Reaves remarked.
This incident is reminiscent of a previous game in Milwaukee, where a similar conflict occurred over a game ball after Antetokounmpo’s historic 64-point game. However, this time, the resolution was smooth, with Doncic later presenting the ball to Thiero in the locker room.
“I’m very thankful for this team,” said Thiero, who was selected by the Lakers with the No. 36 pick after they traded up twice during the draft. “I think that shows how connected we are and how much we want each other to succeed.”
The Lakers, now boasting a 10-4 overall record and sitting at No. 4 in the Western Conference standings, celebrated this victory despite missing key players Marcus Smart (illness) and Rui Hachimura (sore left calf). They eagerly anticipate the return of LeBron James, who may return as soon as Tuesday against the Utah Jazz.
Vanderbilt concluded, “Either way, I’m glad he got [the game ball]. He deserves it. That’s a big-time achievement, accomplishment, scoring your first NBA points. Especially in a win.”
Stay tuned for updates as the Lakers continue their campaign, with Thiero’s debut marking a significant moment for the team.
