Luka Doncic and Giannis Antetokounmpo offer massive praise for each other

The Dallas Mavericks lost to the Milwaukee Bucks 124-115 on Sunday night, but the battle of MVP candidates lived up to its billing. Luka Doncic had 27 points, 12 assists, and five rebounds for the Mavs, but Giannis Antetokounmpo countered with 30 points, 11 rebounds, four assists, and one steal to lift Milwaukee to the win. They are among the favorites for MVP this season, and arguably the two best players in the world right now.

The Bucks lead the league in defensive rating, but Doncic and the Mavericks had no issues scoring on Nov. 27. They just could not stop Giannis, and his rim pressure opened up shots that Milwaukee rarely missed. The Bucks made 55.8 percent from the field and 45.9 percent of their 3-pointers, which was led by 25 points from Grayson Allen, including connecting on seven 3-pointers.

After the game, Doncic had high praise for Antetokounmpo, and here is a closer look at what he said before diving into Giannis’ response.

Luka Doncic and Giannis Antetokounmpo offer massive praise for each other after Bucks defeat Mavericks

Doncic was not shy about offering praise for the Greek Freak after Sunday’s game. See what he had to say below when asked about competing against Giannis.

"You know, enjoy is hard because I want to win. It is hard to go against a guy like that. He’s the best player in the NBA right now. He is almost impossible to stop. It is really fun to see him play, but it is not that fun to go against him."

It was the second straight day that Luka gave Antetokounmpo credit as the league’s best player. He also gave him props for his improvement and the hard work that he has put in on his game.

Giannis was asked about Luka calling him the best player in the league, and fans can see his response below.

"I’d say that is a great compliment, and I appreciate that. When you play against the best players in the league, being able to say something like that, feels good. No matter wins or losses, just being respected by your peers, it is always a good feeling."

Antetokounmpo continued with some massive praise for Luka Doncic.

"I always love playing against the best players in the league. He’s an incredible player and incredible talent. Arguably, one of the most talented players I’ve ever seen in my lifetime. It is unbelievable what he can do for himself and his team, and it is always great going against players like that."

Fans got a treat on Sunday night, and it was a shame that Dallas was on the second night of a back-to-back and wrapping up a three-game road trip. Still, Doncic and Antetokounmpo shined in an entertaining shootout. The two will wrap up their season series against each other on Dec. 9 in Dallas.

The Dallas Mavericks have lost four straight and five of their last six games, and things do not get any easier as they travel back home to host the defending champion Warriors on Tuesday night. Expect Luka Doncic to stay locked in as he looks to help the Mavs get a bit of revenge from the playoffs. Fans won’t want to miss a second of the action, so please tune in and enjoy the show.