Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo tried to stay hopeful after witnessing Damian Lillard’s scary injury during the team’s Game 4 loss to the Indiana Pacers.
Speaking with Eric Nehm, Giannis described the moment Lillard collapsed with a non-contact injury just six minutes into the game.
“You see your teammate down, and your first thought is, ‘Come on, get up, get up,’” Giannis said. But when Lillard stayed on the floor and was unable to walk without help, Giannis knew it was serious.
The injury was especially tough to watch given Lillard had only just returned in Game 2 after a month-long absence. The Bucks’ medical staff rushed to evaluate him, but a full diagnosis has yet to be announced. Many fear it could be an ACL tear, which would mean an extended recovery.
Giannis, who finished with 28 points and 15 rebounds in the loss, showed strong support for Lillard afterward.
“A lot of people don’t see what Dame has to deal with, but I’ve been around him every single day. It’s hard,” Giannis said.
He called Lillard one of the toughest people mentally he’s ever known and expressed confidence that his teammate will overcome whatever challenges lie ahead.
“Everybody’s going to be there for him,” he added. “No matter what the obstacle is for him, he’s going to overcome, and we’re going to help him overcome.”
The Bucks now face an uphill battle in the series without one of their key stars.