Report: Giannis wanted to re-enter Game 4 after spraining ankle
Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo wanted team staff to allow him back into Game 4 after he sprained his right ankle earlier in Sunday's contest. He wasn't approved to return as he couldn't plant or jump off the sprain, sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.
Head coach Mike Budenholzer said he didn't entertain putting Antetokounmpo back into the do-or-die matchup. The reigning MVP left the arena with a protective boot on his right ankle, ESPN's Malika Andrews reports.
"He'll get treatment through the night. We'll just how he does over the next 24-48 hours," Budenholzer said postgame, according to ESPN's Rachel Nichols.
Antetokounmpo, who was a game-time decision with a right ankle sprain, injured himself while trying to pass Heat forward Andre Iguodala on a drive. He remained in the game and attempted a pair of free throws before checking out.
Giannis Antetokounmpo re-injured his ankle and after shooting two free throws, left the court. pic.twitter.com/CUNpWnrVKH
— ESPN (@espn) September 6, 2020
Antetokounmpo initially suffered his ankle sprain in the first quarter of Game 3 on Friday. Those around the Bucks organization didn't expect him to suit up for Sunday's contest, according to Wojnarowski.
Antetokounmpo exited with 19 points and four rebounds in 11 minutes. He's averaged 22.7 points, 13.3 rebounds, and seven assists through the first three games of the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Miami leads Milwaukee 3-1 in the best-of-seven series.