When the Milwaukee Bucks stumbled to a 4-9 start in the 2024-25 season, it appeared that the team’s chemistry was unraveling, and major changes seemed inevitable. However, a remarkable turnaround followed, with the team winning eight of their last 10 games to climb above .500.

According to Paul Pierce, this resurgence has been driven by the unwavering leadership of Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has inspired his teammates to bring more heart and determination to the court.

Pierce praised Giannis’ leadership

Despite the rough start, “The Greek Freak” never wavered in his effort and continued to play at an elite level. Moreover, Giannis’ persistence has been reflected in his league-leading scoring average of 32.5 points and 11.6 rebounds per game, ranking fifth overall. But it’s not individual brilliance that has made the difference.

Antetokounmpo’s vocal and on-court leadership has motivated his teammates to tighten up defensively, holding opponents to fewer than 107 points in half of their last 10 contests. On offense, the team’s recent surge has been showcased by an impressive 119.7 offensive rating in the same stretch.

Highlighting the same on the “KG Certified” podcast, Paul Pierce commended the two-time MVP for his ability to rally his teammates through sheer effort and determination. Furthermore, “The Truth” emphasized how Giannis refused to give up on his team and continued to set the tone with his play. Their recent surge speaks volumes of his optimistic leadership.

“Sometimes leadership is all it takes. Certain teams, it’s like, ‘Why they can’t get over the hump? Why they can’t do this?’ Sometimes it ain’t about the talent, it’s about you ain’t got no leader,” Pierce said. “And Giannis has shown me that. He a true leader out there, and Dame has shown that (too).”