Giannis Antetokounmpo loses the game but earns respect with a controversial gesture

The Milwaukee Bucks fell 119-95 to the Los Angeles Lakers in a game where Luka Doncic stole the spotlight with 42 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. Austin Reaves and Deandre Ayton added solid contributions to the Lakers’ victory, achieved even without LeBron James. Meanwhile, Giannis Antetokounmpo led Milwaukee with 32 points on 9-of-15 shooting. Yet what drew the most attention wasn’t his performance on the court, but what he did after the final buzzer.

According to Athlonsports, the controversy began when lead referee Pat Fraher prevented Jarred Vanderbilt from taking the game ball to give it to rookie Adou Thiero. The young guard had just made his NBA debut, scoring his first points, including a highlight dunk. Faced with the referee’s refusal, Giannis Antetokounmpo stepped in. He grabbed the ball from a Bucks staff member and handed it to Luka Doncic. Who then passed it to Thiero in recognition of the milestone.

Gesture celebrated online

The act was widely praised on social media, with comments like “Giannis is real, that’s why he’s respected across the league.” Others called him “the nicest guy in the NBA.” Still, some fans pointed out the irony, recalling December 2023 when Giannis Antetokounmpo kept the game ball after scoring 64 points, leaving Pacers rookie Oscar Tshiebwe without a keepsake from his first career points.

This time, Giannis Antetokounmpo showed how even in defeat a moment of sportsmanship can transcend the scoreboard. For Thiero, who initially didn’t realize the fuss was about him, the gesture became an unexpected show of support. “I’m very grateful, I think it shows how united we are and how much we want each other to succeed,” the rookie said in the locker room.

Tension around officiating

Beyond the anecdote, the episode highlighted ongoing tension between players and referees in the NBA. Fraher’s decision to block Vanderbilt from taking the ball was seen by many as an overreach of authority. Reigniting debate about the role of officials in symbolic moments. In this case, Giannis Antetokounmpo resolved the situation with a move that reinforced his image as a respected leader both on and off the floor.

Giannis secured the game ball for Lakers rookie Adou Thiero after scoring his first NBA points. pic.twitter.com/9BwecS0pdy

— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) November 16, 2025

The Lakers, now 10-4, prepare to host the Utah Jazz, while the Bucks head to Cleveland to face the Cavaliers. Amid the grind of the season, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s action stands as a reminder that greatness isn’t only measured in points. But also in gestures that strengthen basketball’s culture.