"Sure he plays hard against his wife all the time": Fans see the lighter side of Giannis Antetokounmpo's intense competitive drive

Giannis Antetokounmpo doubled down on his relentless competitive nature after the Milwaukee Bucks’ 127-117 loss to the LA Clippers on Saturday. The two-time MVP emphasized that he always gives his all, regardless of who he's playing against — a statement that sparked humor among fans.

Even in defeat, Antetokounmpo put up an impressive stat line, recording 36 points and 13 rebounds. Speaking postgame, he made it clear that his effort doesn’t waver, even when the competition includes family, like his wife Mariah Riddlesprigger.

“Every time I step on the floor, I try to play hard. If I was playing against older players, against younger players, against my brothers, against my friends, or even if I’m playing against my wife — I’ll be honest with you, I always play hard,” he said (per Ben Golliver).

Fans quickly latched onto his comment about his wife, who is often joked about because of her frequent pregnancies. She is currently expecting their fourth child.

“Oh I'm sure he plays hard against his wife all the time,” one said.

“Bro definitely goes extra hard against his wife fs,” another commented.

“That's why he's unstoppable... who else goes all out against their wife?” another said.

Other fans reacted with playful takes on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s quote.

“This man kids are about to be dangerous 😳,” one said.

“Nicest guy off the court. On the court? He'd posterize his mom,” another added.

Antetokounmpo is having another MVP-worthy season, averaging 31.4 points, 12.0 rebounds and 5.8 assists.

Giannis Antetokounmpo praises former rival James Harden

The Milwaukee Bucks’ game against James Harden’s LA Clippers during the NBA’s Rivals Week showcased a rare moment of mutual respect between the two former MVPs.

Despite their past tension surrounding the award, Giannis Antetokounmpo had nothing but admiration for Harden on Saturday.

“Incredible. Incredible talent. One of the best players to ever play the game,” Antetokounmpo said, referring to Harden (per Joey Linn). “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.”

Harden put up a stellar performance, finishing with 40 points and nine assists, leading the Clippers to a 26-19 record. Meanwhile, the Bucks dropped to 25-18 after the loss.