Lakers’ Adou Thiero Scores First Points Amid Game Ball Drama

UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, the Los Angeles Lakers secured a decisive 119-95 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on November 11, 2023, but the real drama erupted postgame as players vied for the game ball to celebrate rookie Adou Thiero’s first NBA points.

As the Lakers dominated the game, leading by as many as 31 points, Thiero stole the spotlight by scoring four points, including an electrifying dunk in the final minute. Following the buzzer, Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt attempted to keep the game ball as a memento for Thiero, but referee Pat Fraher intervened, stating that the ball belonged to the Bucks.

“I went to grab the ball,” Vanderbilt explained. “The rookie scored his first points; that’s what happens in the league.” The referee’s insistence that the ball was not Vanderbilt’s to give away caught the Lakers off guard. Lakers guard Austin Reaves expressed disbelief, saying, “I’ve never heard that.”

In a surprising act of sportsmanship, Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo stepped in, taking the ball from a Bucks attendant and gifting it to Lakers star Luka Doncic, who later presented it to Thiero in the locker room. “That shows a lot of class,” Reaves noted about Antetokounmpo’s gesture.

This incident harkens back to a more contentious game ball dispute nearly two years ago involving the Indiana Pacers and a rookie, but this time, the resolution was amicable. Thiero, who had missed the first 13 games of the season due to recovery from knee surgery, expressed gratitude, stating, “I’m very thankful for this team. I think that shows how connected we are.”

The Lakers’ victory improves their record to 10-4 overall, placing them No. 4 in the Western Conference standings. The team continues to navigate injuries, with Marcus Smart and Rui Hachimura sidelined. Fans are eagerly anticipating the return of LeBron James, potentially as soon as Tuesday against the Utah Jazz.

Vanderbilt summed up the team’s sentiments perfectly: “Either way, I’m glad he got [the game ball]. He deserves it. That’s a big-time accomplishment, scoring your first NBA points, especially in a win.” The camaraderie and support within the Lakers’ roster are evident, making Thiero’s milestone a memorable moment for the franchise.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the Lakers’ upcoming matchups!