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Is there anything that could sweep over the heights reached by the legends of the league? NBA veterans and fans are enthralled to witness NBA commissioner Adam Silver’s mastermind plan for the In-Season tournament in execution. This first-ever tournament has delivered the anticipated excitement. Despite that, several lingering questions have the fans’ attention.

Milwaukee Bucks player Giannis Antetokounmpo recently stirred the pot as he made a bold statement involving Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan. In a recent interview, the Greek Freak surprisingly made the bold claim of having a chance to beat the champions of yesteryears.

The 2x NBA MVP award winner made a striking boast this week. Speaking to journalists, the Bucks star player revealed that this first-ever NBA In-Season tournament is a unique opportunity. He also noted that winning this tournament will add a very special and significant accolade to their portfolio. Moreover, he stated that the yesteryear giants of the league won’t be able to have this title on their resume.

USA Today via Reuters

He said, “Whoever’s gonna win this thing is gonna have one-up on Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, Kobe, Shaq.” He added, “So I guess I’m better than them.”

Following that, he quickly added that his words were only meant as a joke. Although Giannis’s words were meant as a joke, it indeed raises the question of whether he is right about his analysis. In hopes of attaining the $500,000 prize, the Greek Freak expressed his wish for the Bucks to win.

How much the NBA In Season tournament will award its winners

There’s also another important question about how much the players will be paid. As per reports, players of the victorious team will receive $500,000 each, while those in second place will be awarded $200,000. Additionally, teams eliminated in the semifinals will earn $100,000, and players from losing quarterfinal teams will each receive $50,000.

Currently, heading to the semi-finals are the Indiana Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks, New Orleans Pelicans, and Los Angeles Lakers. Who do you think will win the tournament?