Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has spoken out against what he called “disrespectful” behavior from Tyrese Haliburton’s father following the Indiana Pacers’ dramatic 119-118 win that sealed a 4-1 first-round playoff series victory.
Antetokounmpo, a two-time NBA MVP, was visibly frustrated after the loss, which ended the Bucks’ hopes of a second title since 2021.
In the post-game chaos, a man approached him waving a towel with Haliburton’s face on it, taunting the Bucks forward.
Giannis initially believed it was a fan before realizing it was Haliburton’s father.
“I believe in being humble in victory,” Antetokounmpo said. “I thought it was a fan at first, but when I realized it was Tyrese’s dad, it felt very disrespectful. I love Tyrese he’s a great competitor but this crossed the line.”
Haliburton, who hit the game-winning lay-up with 1.3 seconds remaining, later apologized on behalf of his father. “I had no idea it happened until I saw the video in the locker room,” he said.
“We talked about it. I don’t agree with it. Let’s keep the game on the court.”
The Bucks squandered a seven-point lead with just 40 seconds remaining. The Pacers scored the final eight points, including two critical turnovers and Haliburton’s decisive basket.
Indiana will now face the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference semi-finals.
Elsewhere, the Boston Celtics eliminated the Orlando Magic with a dominant 120-89 win. Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 35 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds.
The turning point came in the third quarter when Orlando’s Paolo Banchero picked up his fifth foul.
The Celtics await the winner of the Knicks vs. Pistons series. Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets lead the LA Clippers 3-2 and are set to face the Oklahoma City Thunder if they advance.
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