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[Saba Sports News] Tensions flared between Giannis Antetokounmpo and Chris Paul late in Friday’s matchup between the Milwaukee Bucks and San Antonio Spurs.
With the Spurs leading 131-111 in the closing minutes at Frost Bank Center, Antetokounmpo attempted a spin move in the paint against Paul. Just as he looked poised to finish at the rim, Paul’s leg appeared to trip him up, sending Giannis tumbling to the baseline.
The two-time MVP was visibly furious, aggressively pointing at Paul and needing to be held back by Spurs forward Jeremy Sochan. Officials reviewed the play for a flagrant foul but ultimately ruled it a common foul.
Antetokounmpo, possibly frustrated by the blowout and multiple rejections from Victor Wembanyama earlier in the game, finished with 35 points, 14 rebounds, and 6 assists in Milwaukee’s 144-118 loss. Wembanyama shined with 30 points, 14 rebounds, and 6 blocks, while Paul contributed 12 points and 9 assists.
Though Paul’s trip may not have been intentional, his history with Giannis—dating back to their 2021 NBA Finals showdown—suggests lingering tensions between the two.