Giannis Antetokounmpo heaps praise on former MVP after Clippers vs Bucks clash, says 'One of the best players to ever play the game...'

Giannis Antetokounmpo kept his rivalry aside with James Harden and praised the 35-year-old in the recent Milwaukee Bucks vs LA Clippers match that ended in the favor of the latter in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

What did Giannis Antetokounmpo say about James Harden?

James Harden had a game to remember as he registered 40 points as the Clippers defeated the Bucks (127-117) and ended their five-game streak. Following the loss to the Clippers, Bucks' Antetokounmpo praised the former MVP for his remarkable career.

Incredible. Incredible talent. One of the best players to ever play the game. He’s probably scored 25,000 points plus. Still able to get to his spots. Still able to help his team win. He’s an incredible talent.

There is no actual incident that can pinpoint when the feud between Antetokounmpo and Harden started. According to analysts, a strong pass from Antetokounmpo that knocked Harden to the ground in 2019 was the initial starting of the dispute.

It was during the 2018-2019 season, Antetokounmpo and Harden fought for the coveted MVP award as the former took home his first crown. But, Harden in that very season led the scoring with 36.1 points per game, contributed to 6.6 rebounds and 7.5 assists, and felt that he deserved the award more than anybody.

Harden feels that the media narrative played a major role in voting.

I think once the media, they create a narrative about somebody from the beginning of the year, I think they just take that narrative and run with it the entire year.

Giannis Antetokounmpo reached milestone against Bucks

James Harden has reached many personal achievements but Giannis Antetokounmpo isn't far behind his rival. Harden recently saw himself in the top 15 all-time scoring list and the 30-year-old Greek center is slowly but steadily making his way up the list.

In the game against the Bucks, Giannis scored 36 points and now has 19,665 points in his career. He is now 53rd on the all-time scoring list ahead of Bernard King (19,655). He has a long way to catch Harden (26,795).