Jalen Green and Giannis Antetokounmpo have been named the NBA's Players of the Week for Week 13 of the 2024-25 season, showcasing their impressive performances on the court as their teams secured significant wins.
Green, the explosive guard for the Houston Rockets, averaged 32.5 points per game over the week. His shooting was nothing short of outstanding—he boasted 60.6% from the field and 63.3% from three-point range. This remarkable shooting efficiency propelled the Rockets to a solid 3-1 record during the week, adding more momentum to their season.
According to reports from Gerald Bourguet, Green’s efforts also included 3.5 assists and 3.5 rebounds per game, underscoring his all-around contributions on the floor. This recognition marks the first time Green has received this honor this season and the second time overall in his four-year career. "Jalen Green averaged 32.5 points per game this week, showcasing his scoring prowess," Bourguet noted.
On the other hand, Antetokounmpo, forward for the Milwaukee Bucks and two-time MVP, continued to demonstrate why he is considered one of the league's best. He averaged 32.0 points, along with 12.5 rebounds and 6.5 assists, leading the Bucks to a perfect 4-0 week. With this performance, Antetokounmpo has now claimed the Player of the Week award 25 times throughout his impressive career, including two times this season alone.
The Bucks, benefiting from Antetokounmpo's dominance, recorded victories against notable teams like Sacramento, Orlando, Toronto, and Philadelphia, with their wins coming by impressive margins of around 19 points per game. His consistent performance on both ends of the court was pivotal to the team’s success. "Antetokounmpo averaged 32.0 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 6.5 assists during this period," as highlighted by NBA reports.
Adding to his accolades, it was also noted by the NBA, "Green has now scored at least 26 points in eight consecutive games," reflecting his growing status as one of the league's top scorers. This streak is indicative of his improvement and his ability to take over games, providing fans with thrilling performances each time he steps onto the hardwood.
Both players defeated stiff competition for the honors. For the Eastern Conference, Antetokounmpo bested fellow nominees like LaMelo Ball, Myles Turner, and Damian Lillard. Meanwhile, Green prevailed over players such as James Harden and Devin Booker, who were also notable contenders for the Western Conference’s Player of the Week. This recognition not only celebrates their individual talents but also the efforts of their respective teams as they push through the regular season.
Looking at the broader picture, this achievement is not just about personal accolades but also the strategic improvements both the Bucks and Rockets have made this season. Antetokounmpo’s leadership and scoring ability, coupled with Green’s explosive offensive performances, reflect their team's overall growth and competitive spirit.
These awards set the stage for what promises to be an exciting second half of the season, as both teams seek to solidify their playoff positions. With Green continuing his scoring surge and Antetokounmpo leading his team with veteran savvy and skill, basketball fans have much to look forward to as the regular season progresses.
Interestingly, previous Player of the Week winners from the 2024-25 season include Domantas Sabonis and Nikola Jokić, indicating the high caliber of talent across the league. Through these recognitions, both Jalen Green and Giannis Antetokounmpo have not only etched their names among the greats but have also inspired upcoming talent in the NBA.