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via Imago
Credits: Imago
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-46-288.jpg?width=600)
via Imago
Credits: Imago
The most decorated duo in recent memory made their preseason debut on Sunday. The disgruntled Damian Lillard joined forces with Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason in hopes of winning the elusive Larry O’Brien trophy. After sitting out the first two preseason games, Dame and the Greek Freak put on a show together against the Los Angeles Lakers. The much-awaited game of the preseason lived up to the hype as fans witnessed the dynamic potential of the pair for the first time.
The Bucks handed the Lakers their third preseason defeat in the absence of LeBron James. A few hours after beating the Lakers, Giannis offered an interesting perspective into his partnership with Dame DOLLA.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s unique take on Damian Lillard
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The dynamic duo of the Milwaukee Bucks played their first game together against the Lakers in crypto.com Arena on Sunday. The Bucks emerged as the victors after handing the Lakers a 108-97 upset. Combining 30 points in just 37 minutes on the hardwood, the offensive juggernaut of Dame and Giannis dominated the paint together. After stunning the Lakers, the 2x MVP opened up Dame’s impressive qualities off the court that have added great value to the team.
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USA Today via Reuters
Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
“He’s a great guy. Works extremely hard. Work on this craft. Wants to win. Extremely hungry. Does what it takes to win. I’m happy that it’s a guy that you know I lace up my shoe and I go and play with. But at the end of the day he’s just he’s so quiet, doesn’t say much because I feel like he’s a little version of me. In a guard version,” said the 7ft forward.
He further added, “I learn so much from him, he knows how to play this game, he puts himself in a position to be successful. He helps us and puts me in a position to be successful. And he talks to me, which I appreciate a lot. I always love to have that voice. Somebody that can kind of tell where to go and how to be effective and how can I help him and the team.”
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Giannis and Dame’s debut game
The offensive tandem of Dame and Giannis were off to an impressive start against the Lakers, who were without LeBron James. Lillard shone offensively and defensively, managing 14 points, two rebounds, and three assists in 22 minutes. Antetokounmpo was his regular dominating self, scoring 16 points in 15 minutes on 7-for-10 shooting.
Read More: Handing LeBron’s Lakers a Thumping, Damian Lillard Drops Verses on “Pressure” After Bucks Debut
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While the chemistry between the two was promising for their first game, they need to fine-tune that synergy as the season progresses in order to maximize their joint potential. However, their debut game was just a glimpse of what the regular season has in store for us.
Watch this story: Chasing His First NBA Crown “Badly”, Damian Lillard Gets a Massive Vote of Confidence From Giannis Antetokounmpo: “I Can Feel It”