Giannis Antetokounmpo admits the effects of playing through his hyperextended knee in the 2021 NBA Finals still linger — and likely always will.
In Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals that year, the two-time MVP suffered a frightening knee injury that many feared was a torn ACL. Fortunately, it was “only” a hyperextension, but the risk of aggravating it was enormous. Despite medical concerns, Giannis chose to play through the pain in the Finals, a gamble that paid off with a championship and Finals MVP honors.
“My leg was the opposite way… I still feel it, and I think I’m going to feel it until I die,” Giannis told GQ in 2021. He revealed that another hyperextension at the time could have ended his career, as the structure protecting him from a full ACL or MCL tear was already torn.
The decision led to a legendary Finals run — 35.2 points, 13.2 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game over six contests — but the long-term cost remains. Since then, Giannis has battled recurring leg and knee issues, sometimes missing crucial playoff games.
