As the NBA world was busy watching Luka Doncic roast Nico Harris in LA, something else was also cooking between the Houston Rockets and Milwaukee Bucks. Rockets sophomore guard Amen Thompson was ejected after committing a flagrant foul 2 on Giannis Antetokounmpo. Thompson grabbed Antetokounmpo’s neck while attempting to stop a crucial fourth-quarter drive, leading to an immediate ejection and a $2,000 fine.

The incident occurred with roughly four minutes remaining in the game. The “Greek Freak” known for his dominant presence—was driving to the rim to tie the game when Thompson, in what initially appeared to be a routine hard foul, grabbed him around the neck and pulled him to the floor. Officials quickly reviewed the play, deemed it unnecessary and excessive, and removed Thompson from the contest.

After the game, Antetokounmpo addressed the foul, taking a surprisingly understanding stance toward Thompson’s physical style. “You don’t want to have like a league that’s soft. I love guys that play hard. I love guys that they’re great competitors. I’m one of those guys.”

He continued, “Sometimes, you know, competitive nature getting the way in making the best judgment… He wanted to make a hard foul, but he grabbed my neck but there’s no hard feeling… when you’re a competitor you’re going to make mistakes like that.” 

Tony Brothers, the crew chief officiating the game, clarified, “Because the contact to the head was both unnecessary and excessive and by rule, that’s a flagrant foul penalty two”. Rockets head coach Ime Udoka agreed with the ruling, as did Bucks head coach Doc Rivers, both calling it the right decision given the danger involved.

Unexpectedly, Thompson declined to speak to reporters post-game, leaving questions about his perspective on the play. The 22-year-old has built a reputation for playing with high energy and aggression, traits that many coaches and players around the league have praised. Even Antetokounmpo noted he understands how competitive fire can lead to impulsive, high-impact plays.

So, it’s safe to say that Amen Thompson got away only with a $2000 fine for the ejection for now, or else he would have triggered an unnecessary rivalry with the Greek superstar. Though this altercation momentarily overshadowed the game’s outcome, observers were quick to point out Thompson’s potential. He’s found quite a few fans.

Aside from the Giannis Antetokounmpo moment, ‘rare-breed’ Amen Thompson has actually impressed other legends!

To begin with, Amen’s found none other than King himself, LeBron James as an admirer. The 40-year-old was left mesmerized by the sophomore’s aggression on the floor. Speaking to the press after the Lakers’ loss against the Rockets, the 4x Champ said, “They ain’t like the rest of us. I’ve been able to go against some dudes in my career, and those two guys, man, they’re just pure athleticism. They love the game, and you love to see that“.

While Bron selflessly praised his talent, Lakers HC wasn’t too far behind. JJ Redick didn’t restrict himself from lauding the sophomore, despite tasting the sour loss. “Thompson just killed us all night, whether it was in transition with his cutting or on the offensive glass.”

The praise doesn’t stop there. Amen’s own teammate, Steven Adams, referred to him as “one of a kind”. It’s not very easy to get that title in the league. You often get compared to your peers or legends from the past, but to make your own style is something commendable.

Time will tell how Thompson uses this experience going forward. As fans debate whether his style crosses boundaries, his supporters argue it’s exactly this passion and aggression that make him a standout. In the end, both Thompson and Antetokounmpo appear ready to move on, proving once again that, in a league of relentless competitors, respect is often forged in the toughest battles.