Giannis Antetokounmpo says forcing Game 7 is ‘big’ for Bucks’ growth

The Milwaukee Bucks entered Game 6 of their first-round playoff series against the Boston Celtics with their backs against the wall in a must-win situation down 3-2. The bell was answered by the Bucks protecting their home court to force a Game 7 on Saturday afternoon at TD Garden.

All-Star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo stepped up the challenge on Thursday night leading the way offensively with a double-double posting 31 points with 14 rebounds along with four assists in the win. Following the game, Antetokounmpo called the Bucks’ performance a huge step forward for the team’s growth, according to Nick Friedell of ESPN.

“It’s big,” Antetokounmpo said. “It’s big for our growth, growing as a team. We were in the same position last year [against the Toronto Raptors], wasn’t able to win Game 6. We have a big opportunity ahead of us. Hopefully, we can go to Boston and get ready for Game 7.”

Despite not having the services of All-Star point guard Kyrie Irving, the Celtics have held control of the series throughout pushing forward to a 2-o lead, but the Bucks have shown plenty of fight by responding each time things could head south for them. Antetokounmpo has been a huge part of keeping Milwaukee in battling back as he’s averaging 26.3 points on 59.6 percent shooting from the field along with 9.7 rebounds, 6.5 assists, and 1.7 steals per contest.

The 23-year-old has been able to in double figures in each game with three 30-point outing that each resulted in double-doubles. He has been a steady offensive factor for the Bucks that will likely look to once again rely heavily upon Antetokounmpo to lead the way. If they hope to have any realistic shot of pulling out the major upset, it will require their star forward to play a big factor on both ends of the floor.

It will be an intense atmosphere in Game 7 with everything on the line, which could provide another key opportunity for growth and valuable experience for the Bucks moving forward.