UPDATE: In a thrilling game on November 11, 2023, the Los Angeles Lakers dominated the Milwaukee Bucks with a staggering 119-95 victory, but the real drama unfolded after the final buzzer. Lakers rookie Adou Thiero made headlines by scoring his first NBA points, igniting a heated dispute over the game ball.
As the Lakers cruised to a victory, Thiero’s four points—including a highlight-reel dunk—were celebrated by his teammates. However, the excitement turned into chaos when Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt attempted to secure the game ball for Thiero. Just as Vanderbilt prepared to take the ball to the locker room, crew chief Pat Fraher intervened, confiscating the ball and asserting it belonged to the Bucks.
“I went to grab the ball,” Vanderbilt stated. “The rookie scored his first points, that’s what happens in the league.”
The referee’s actions shocked both players and fans. Lakers guard Austin Reaves expressed disbelief, noting, “He said it’s not my ball to give away, which was like … I’ve never heard that.” Vanderbilt revealed that Fraher threatened disciplinary action for his attempt to keep the ball, stating, “I don’t know what the hell he’s talking about.”
In a surprising twist, Giannis Antetokounmpo stepped in and showcased his sportsmanship by reclaiming the ball from the Bucks attendant and handing it to Lakers star Luka Doncic. “That shows a lot of class,” Reaves remarked, highlighting the positive outcome amidst the tension.
This incident drew comparisons to a similar game ball dispute in Milwaukee nearly two years ago, showcasing how far both teams have come. The atmosphere was markedly different this time, ending on a high note as Doncic presented the ball to Thiero in the locker room.
Thiero, who was selected by the Lakers with the No. 36 pick in the second round, expressed gratitude for the support from his teammates. “At first I didn’t realize it was all for me. But I’m very thankful for this team,” he said, underscoring the unity within the Lakers organization.
The Lakers faced significant challenges with two starting lineup scratches due to illness and injury, yet they managed to secure a 3-2 record on their five-game road trip, improving to 10-4 overall and solidifying their place at No. 4 in the Western Conference standings.
As the team looks ahead, they eagerly await the return of LeBron James, who is recovering from sciatica and could return as soon as Tuesday against the Utah Jazz. “Either way, I’m glad he got [the game ball],” Vanderbilt said of Thiero. “He deserves it. That’s a big-time achievement, accomplishment, scoring your first NBA points, especially in a win.”
This incident serves as a reminder of the camaraderie and competitive spirit that define the NBA, making it a memorable moment for the Lakers and their fans. As the league progresses, all eyes will be on Thiero and the Lakers as they continue to build on their early-season success.
