On Sunday, Giannis Antetokounmpo was knocked out of Game 1 of the Bucks' first-round playoff series with the Miami Heat after suffering a lower-back injury.
Antetokounmpo was driving to the basket late in the first quarter with his Bucks trailing by a 24-12 score. He picked up his dribble just before the free throw line, took two steps and leaped for a layup attempt. Kevin Love was standing in his way and attempted to draw the charge, which resulted in Antetokounmpo falling hard on his back.
Giannis with a scary fall
Fortunately, he's ok pic.twitter.com/QaShNkKoUi
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 16, 2023
Antetokounmpo remained in the game, before exiting two minutes later. He did reenter the contest about two minutes into the second quarter, but was only able to play briefly before leaving once more.
Giannis headed back to the locker room after taking a fall in the first quarter. pic.twitter.com/HOmRfFZKa6
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) April 16, 2023
According to TNT’s Allie LaForce, Antetokounmpo tried to ride a bike to loosen up, but it failed to take. He was subsequently ruled out for the rest of Game 1 with a lower-back contusion.
The two-time NBA MVP had 6 points in 11 minutes before leaving the game.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!