The Milwaukee Bucks have their core seemingly set for the future, with Michael Carter-Williams, Greg Monroe, Jabari Parker, Khris Middleton and Giannis Antetokounmpo. Of them all, the Greek Freak may be the most important to the team’s future success. His sophomore season saw tremendous growth on both ends of the floor – he was a better ball handler, a more disciplined defender, and a more confident scorer. He still needs work in all areas of his game, but perhaps the most crucial aspect – the improvement of which will help both Giannis and the rest of the team – is his jump shot. Giannis shot just 7-of-44 from beyond the arc last season.
If the Bucks and Giannis are ever going to reach their full potential, that numbers has to spike dramatically over the next couple seasons.
Fortunately for both parties, it appears as if Giannis is well on his way to becoming a better shooter. Against Bosnia — in addition to providing his usual feats that led to his assonance-heavy nickname, this time in the form of blocks — Giannis shot 3-of-6 from downtown.
While it’s just one game, and against inferior competition, it’s nonetheless encouraging. His stroke looks more fluid and he seems less hesitant to let it fly, which can sometimes be the biggest mental block to success, especially if you’re known for having a janky jumper.
This is tremendous news for the rest of the team, if it’s something that’ll translate to the NBA level. Even marginally better shooting by Giannis from the outside this season will open up driving lanes for MCW, give Monroe and John Henson more room to operate down low, and add a whole new dimension to the Bucks’ offense. Even if Giannis never becomes a dead-eye shooter, just being a consistent shooter will do wonders for his game and the Bucks.
