NBA Twitter all-in on epic Jayson Tatum, Giannis Antetokounmpo duel in Game 6

The Celtics needed to win Game 6 to stay alive against the Bucks and Jayson Tatum went toe-to-toe with Giannis Antetokounmpo in an epic duel to do so.

With the Boston Celtics facing elimination and traveling to Milwaukee for Game 6 in their second round series against the Bucks, the call from many fans was simple: It’s time for Jayson Tatum to show he’s a superstar and step up.

Suffice it to say he did that — but not without some resistance from the Bucks’ own superstar, Giannis Antetokounmpo.

It was an epic clash between two superstars putting on a show and operating at peak capacity on Friday night. Antetkounmpo had a monster night with 44 points, 20 rebounds and six assists. But Tatum wouldn’t be outdone as he clutched up with 46 points, nine boards and four assists, including dominating in the fourth quarter to help give the Celtics a crucial win that forces a Game 7 in the series.

Jayson Tatum outduels Giannis Antetokounmpo to give Celtics Game 6: NBA Twitter reacts

After such a monstrous performance from two superstars on a huge stage, NBA Twitter couldn’t help but applaud the duel and appreciate it.

https://twitter.com/damienwoody/status/1525300932753383424

Even better, there’s more coming as the Celtics’ victory forced Game 7 in the series.

As great as the two stars were, particularly Tatum in the fourth quarter for Boston, it was the Celtics getting help around their star that might’ve made the difference.

While Marcus Smart and Jaylen Brown put up 21 and 22 points respectively to aid their teammate, only one Bucks starter outside of Giannis put up more than six points (Jrue Holiday with 17) and Pat Connaughton was the only other player for Milwaukee in double figures.

If the Bucks want to advance further to defend their title with a win in Game 7 in Boston, they’ll need more than just the Greek Freak to help forge that path.