After the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Milwaukee Bucks, 119-95 , on Nov. 15, Lakers rookie Adou Thiero tried to leave the court with the game ball as he scored his first NBA points.

But the game officials would not let him take it, creating confusion among his Los Angeles teammates. Luka Dončić was part of the group asking for it when Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo silently strode over, took the ball and handed it to Dončić.

Per the Lakers television broadcast, Thiero said, “At first I didn't even realize it was all for me, but I'm very thankful for this team and I think that shows how connected we are and how much we want each other to succeed as a team.”

Antetokounmpo was involved in a far more contentious game ball situation on Dec. 14, 2023, after he scored a franchise re

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