Former Milwaukee Bucks big man takes brutal shot at Giannis Antetokounmpo’s game

Giannis Antetokounmpo has faced plenty of criticism from opposing big men throughout his career, but former Milwaukee Bucks center Miroslav Raduljica offered a particularly blunt assessment. Raduljica briefly played alongside Antetokounmpo during the early stages of the superstar’s career and recently took aim at the two-time MVP’s game.

Raduljica shared his thoughts during an appearance on the Ozbiljno Neozbiljni podcast, where he was direct about his view of Antetokounmpo’s game.

“I don’t think Giannis is some extraordinary basketball talent, but he has a talent for hard work, which is actually even more important,” commented the former NBA player.

“I can’t watch that, man. That’s not basketball to me,” continued Raduljica who played two years in the NBA.

“You just charge at the basket, bulk yourself up like a beast, have incredible physical attributes, and jump over people, but you can’t make a three-pointer.”

Dec 23, 2013; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Bobcats center Al Jefferson (25) prepares to pass the ball as he is defended by Bucks center Miroslav Raduljica (9) and guard forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) during the first half of the game at Time Warner Cable Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports

Before Giannis Antetokounmpo became the dominant force he is now, Miroslav Raduljica got to see the young forward up close in Milwaukee. The now 38-year-old, Raduljica spent portions of two seasons with the Bucks during Antetokounmpo’s early years, giving him a firsthand look at a player who would eventually develop into one of the league’s most imposing stars.

Dec 23, 2013; Charlotte, NC, USA; Bucks guard forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) and center Miroslav Raduljica (9) fight Charlotte Bobcats guard Ben Gordon (8) and forward Josh McRoberts (11) fo for the rebound during the first half of the game at Time Warner Cable Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports

There is plenty of statistical evidence behind the criticism, particularly when it comes to Antetokounmpo’s shooting from beyond the arc. His willingness to take three pointers has declined over the past few seasons, while his career mark from long range has remained in the low 30 percent range at best. He has also gone through several stretches where his efficiency from deep has fallen well below that level.

Antetokounmpo has heard the same criticism from teammates and opponents, but his MVPs, championship and scoring dominance show that strategy has not stopped him.

Oct 11, 2019; Dallas, TX, USA; A view of the Bucks logo during the game between the Mavericks and the Bucks at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports