Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Game-Changing Mid-Range Mastery in the 2024/25 Season
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Evolution: The Rise of His Mid-Range Game in the 2024/25 Season
Giannis Antetokounmpo, a well-established star in the NBA, has already accomplished an impressive career, with one NBA championship, two MVP awards, and eight All-Star selections. However, the Greek forward continues to evolve, and the 2024/25 season is a testament to his growth on the court. As of December 10, 2024, Giannis is averaging 32.6 points per game, marking the highest scoring average of his career. Additionally, his field goal percentage of 61.6% and his average of 6.6 assists per game are also career highs, showcasing his increased efficiency and playmaking ability.
One of the most significant developments in Giannis’ game this season is his improvement in the mid-range shooting department. Historically, Giannis was known for his ability to drive to the basket with his unparalleled strength and wingspan, often utilizing his athleticism to finish at the rim. Despite being less effective from long-range shooting, particularly from the three-point line, Giannis has added a new dimension to his game in the 2024/25 season: the mid-range jumper.
Under new head coach Doc Rivers, Giannis has been taking more mid-range shots, with a focus on shots from over 4 meters from the basket. According to recent statistics, he has attempted 74 mid-range shots, hitting 49% of them. This efficiency is a remarkable improvement for a player who has typically relied on attacking the rim rather than settling for jump shots. These mid-range efforts have proven to be a valuable asset for Giannis, as he is showing off his ability to score from different spots on the court, making him an even more dangerous offensive threat.
As his mid-range game evolves, Giannis has also cut back on his three-point shooting, which has traditionally been a weakness. In the 2024/25 season, only 3.6% of his shots have come from beyond the arc, signaling a shift in his approach to scoring. Instead of forcing three-pointers, Giannis has found more success in the mid-range, where he can still use his size and skills to create separation from defenders.
This new focus on mid-range shooting has already paid off in several games. One standout performance came on November 13, 2024, when Giannis dropped 59 points against the Detroit Pistons, including a scorching 7-of-11 from mid-range. In another matchup against the Pistons, Giannis went 5-of-5 from the mid-range, a rare sight for the forward, whose offensive game was previously more reliant on physical drives to the basket.
The evolution of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s mid-range shooting has been crucial in the Milwaukee Bucks’ improved performance. After a rough start to the season with a 6-7 record, the Bucks went on to win 10 of their next 14 games, with Giannis consistently contributing to their success. His development as a more versatile scorer has given the Bucks a new dimension to their offense, making them even more formidable as they look to contend for another championship.
In conclusion, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s development in the 2024/25 season, particularly with his newfound mid-range game, has been a significant step forward in his career. By improving his shooting range, Giannis is adding a layer of unpredictability to his offensive arsenal, elevating his already elite status in the NBA. If he continues to refine this aspect of his game, Giannis could be poised for an even more dominant run in the years to come.
