Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo came under scrutiny after a video surfaced showing him slapping teammate Giannoulis Larentzakis during a team huddle following Greece‘s game against Montenegro. The incident, which happened just days before EuroBasket 2025, sparked a wave of speculation about Antetokounmpo’s intentions. However, Greek reporter Harris Stavrou defended the interaction, explaining that the two players share a long-standing friendship.
Antetokounmpo joined the Greece national basketball team earlier this month and has been traveling with them for exhibition matches leading up to EuroBasket 2025. According to Stavrou, Antetokounmpo and Larentzakis have played together since their youth and have represented Greece as teammates since 2013.
More context emerged from videos shared by Stavrou, including footage where Larentzakis playfully slaps Antetokounmpo during a game. Another angle from the recent huddle shows Larentzakis smiling immediately after being slapped, suggesting the exchange was lighthearted rather than hostile.
Milwaukee Bucks Face Continued Playoff Challenges
Meanwhile, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s troubles extend beyond his national team activities. The Bucks were eliminated in the first round of the 2025 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA playoffs by the Indiana Pacers, marking the third consecutive year the team has exited the playoffs at this stage. Their previous first-round defeats include losses to the Pacers in 2024 and the Miami Heat in 2023.
Though the Bucks won an NBA championship four years ago, recent seasons have been marked by early playoff exits, despite significant roster moves. The addition of star guard Damian Lillard failed to advance the team past the semifinals, leading to Lillard’s release this offseason and the acquisition of Myles Turner.
Looking ahead, 2025-26 represents a critical period for both Giannis and the Bucks. Should the team again fail to advance in the playoffs, speculation about Giannis’s future in Milwaukee may intensify amid pressure to improve results with his new supporting cast.
Implications for Giannis and Greece Ahead of EuroBasket 2025
As EuroBasket 2025 approaches, the spotlight on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s conduct and performance remains high, both internationally and within the NBA. The explanation from Harris Stavrou colors the teammate incident as rooted in deep camaraderie rather than conflict, easing concerns over team dynamics. For the Bucks, overcoming their first-round playoff hurdles is a pressing challenge that could define Giannis’s role going forward.
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They have been representing Greece together since 2013.
” —Harris Stavrou, Greek Reporter
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With the new video angle, Larentzakis can be seen smiling after being slapped by the NBA superstar.
” —Harris Stavrou, Greek Reporter