Lakers’ Rookie Thiero Celebrates First Points Amid Game Ball Drama

UPDATE: In a thrilling turn of events, the Los Angeles Lakers triumphed over the Milwaukee Bucks with a decisive score of 119-95 on November 11, 2023. However, the real story emerged after the final buzzer when a dispute erupted over the game ball, intended for rookie Adou Thiero, who scored his first NBA points during the match.

As the Lakers dominated the game, leading by as many as 31 points, the atmosphere shifted post-game when Thiero made his debut, scoring four points, including an explosive dunk in the last minute. Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt attempted to keep the game ball to present to Thiero, but crew chief Pat Fraher intervened, claiming 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.”

Developing Situation: The exchange escalated when Fraher walked the ball to center court, stating it was not his to give away. Lakers guard Austin Reaves expressed disbelief, saying, “I’ve never heard that.” Vanderbilt further revealed that Fraher threatened disciplinary action against him, saying, “[Fraher] said he’s going to write me up. I don’t know what the hell he’s talking about.”

In a moment of unexpected sportsmanship, Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo stepped in, taking the ball from the Bucks attendant and handing it directly to Lakers star Luka Doncic. “That shows a lot of class,” Reaves remarked, highlighting the goodwill between the teams. This incident was a stark contrast to a similar situation nearly two years ago, when a heated dispute over a game ball erupted after Antetokounmpo scored a career-high 64 points.

The game concluded with a celebratory mood as Doncic later presented the game ball to Thiero in the locker room. Thiero, selected by the Lakers as the No. 36 pick in the second round, expressed his gratitude: “At first, I didn’t realize it was all for me. I’m very thankful for this team. I think that shows how connected we are and how much we want each other to succeed.”

Thiero’s debut comes after he missed the first 13 games of the season due to recovery from knee surgery. The Lakers faced challenges, including the absence of key players Marcus Smart (illness) and Rui Hachimura (sore left calf). They now hold a record of 10-4, positioning them at No. 4 in the Western Conference standings.

As the Lakers look ahead, they are eagerly anticipating the return of LeBron James from sciatica, potentially 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, scoring your first NBA points, especially in a win.”

With this dramatic game ball saga, the Lakers not only celebrated a significant victory but also showcased the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship that defines the league. Fans are now buzzing about Thiero’s future and the team’s upcoming challenges.