“Still can’t believe James Harden stopped Giannis from the post”: NBA fans react to the Beard stalling 2-time MVP in crucial moments of Game 5

James Harden held down 2-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo scoreless during a crucial possession of Game 5, helping his Nets win.

The Game 5 between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Brooklyn Nets had several moments of individual brilliance. Those moments were cheered by NBA fans all over the globe.

Starting from Kevin Durant’s freak show to Jeff Green’s exceptional performance coming off the bench. Giannis Antetokounmpo also had his fair share of moments in the dominating first half.

The Nets won the game 114-108 courtesy of an inspiring performance for their talismanic forward Kevin Durant. KD dropped a magical 49 point triple doubled which had 17 rebounds and 10 assists.

For the Bucks, it was Giannis who took charge and scored 34 points along with 12 rebounds. The Bucks had the upper hand in the game with a 16-point lead going into the break.

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However, the Nets came back strongly as KD led the charge and he had help from Jeff Green who scored 27 points off the bench. James Harden started the game despite being doubtful due to his hamstring injury. Although he did not score a lot of points he was exceptional as a decoy, allowing KD plenty of free shots.

James Harden who just returned from injury forced Giannis Antetokounmpo to take a tough shot

Surprisingly ‘The Beard’ also had a moment of magic when he was guarding Giannis. The Greek freak was with possession as Harden stood tall despite just returning from injury.

The Beard was exceptional with his positioning and gave no space to Giannis and forced him to try a difficult shot. He succeeded as the Bucks talisman attempted a fadeaway jumper and the ball struck the rim and was rebounded by KD.

still cannot believe this wave off happened. pic.twitter.com/HGPrwUm9Nj

— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) June 16, 2021

Also Read: “Kevin Durant is the best player on the planet”: Skip Bayless lauds the Brooklyn Nets superstar after his 49 points in a huge Game 5 win over Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Bucks

Harden showed the audacity to guard Giannis even when he is not fully fit. The Greek is one of the most athletic and agile players in the NBA yet the Beard did not back down.

Most people expected him to foul Giannis forcing him to take free throws. But Harden showed great determination and grit to force a tough shot and he succeeded.

With Game 6 coming up Harden will hope that he is back to full fitness. It will be a relief for Steve Nash aswell as he would like someone to share the offensive load with KD.