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[Saba Sports News] Giannis Antetokounmpo is channeling his inner Festivus spirit by airing his grievances with the NBA.
In an interview with Eric Nehm of *The Athletic*, the Milwaukee Bucks superstar voiced frustration over his team being excluded from this year’s Christmas Day slate. Antetokounmpo admitted he was “pissed” about the snub and questioned the league’s decision-making process.
“I’m a little upset, or kind of questioning it,” Antetokounmpo said. “There’s probably an algorithm in the NBA that determines which teams get the most attention for Christmas games. But if it’s about popularity, I can give you facts. Two All-Star starters, Dame [Lillard] and me, the All-Star MVP [Lillard], and the No. 1 vote-getter in the NBA — not just the East — isn’t playing on Christmas? That doesn’t add up.
“Maybe it’s because we’re a small market. Or maybe it’s just the algorithm,” he continued. “But I’m pissed.”
The Bucks, reigning NBA Cup champions, have been inconsistent this season at 15-12, but their star-studded lineup includes Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, Khris Middleton, and Brook Lopez. Historically, the Bucks are Christmas Day regulars, with 2024 marking the first time since 2017 they’ll miss the marquee event.
Despite the snub, Antetokounmpo expressed gratitude for the chance to spend Christmas with his family. However, it’s clear the exclusion stings for “The Greek Freak,” who had already voiced his displeasure on social media earlier this year.”