WATCH: Giannis Antetokounmpo Updates His Free Throw Routine and Makes a Statement Against Nets

Finally, the NBA is back. And what better way to start it off than having a Giannis Antetokounmpo vs Kevin Durant showdown that lasted seven games last season? However, in reality, it all started with Giannis (34) fouling Nic Claxton (33) as the Nets initiated with a decent ball movement. 

But in no time, the Bucks started cooking the Nets not just defensively, but also offensively. After the Greek Freak completed that crazy block on Claxton, the Bucks’ scoreboard took off. It was as if the touch of his first ring forced him into beast mode.

Welcome the all-improved Giannis Antetokounmpo

Right after winning the 2021 NBA Championship, the Bucks squad sat down to reflect on the season and how they reached where they did. This self-analyzing approach and an itch to replicate success helped them improvise during the off-season. It was much evident in Giannis’ play.

At one point in the game with the Bucks leading 21-12, Giannis converted two free throws in a new style. He did not take 10+ dribbles and instead dropped them quickly in one dribble and made a statement. Take a close look – 

This is one less flaw in the game of the Freak who struggled from the FT line all through the 2020-21 season. It was as if his Game 6 form from the NBA Finals continued.

Read more: ‘We’re Pretty Good’: Despite No Kyrie Irving, James Harden Feels Him and Kevin Durant Are Good Enough for Nets to Win It All

What else has the Freak improved for the Bucks?

Well, the next thing is his jump shots as the 2x MVP has worked on his fadeaways and become more fluid with his stop-and-jumps. In the series opener against the Nets, it all added up and that showed in his score.

Giannis closed the first quarter with the game-high 13 points and 8 rebounds. Although James Harden soon caught up with him and came back strongly, the Freak still kept his team well ahead. 

For the Nets, Patty Mills became a surprise package as he converted all four of his initial three-point attempts. Half way through the second quarter, the Nets were at an 18-point deficit. Do you see the road team making a comeback? Help us know in the comments section below.

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