Lakers Rookie Adou Thiero Scores First Points Amid Game Ball Controversy

MILWAUKEE, Wis. — The Los Angeles Lakers finished their five-game road trip with a convincing 119-95 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2025. While Luka Dončić had a standout performance, scoring 41 points, it was rookie Adou Thiero‘s first NBA points that captured the spotlight.

In just five minutes of play, Thiero scored four points, including a powerful dunk in the final minute of the game.

Teammate Jarred Vanderbilt intended to give Thiero the game ball as a keepsake, following an unofficial league tradition of presenting the ball to players who score their first points. However, referee crew chief Pat Fraher intervened, taking the ball from Vanderbilt and handing it to a Bucks attendant.

“I went to grab the ball,” Vanderbilt said. “The rookie scored his first points. That’s what happens in the league.”

The situation escalated when Fraher told the Lakers players that the ball did not belong to them, creating a brief argument on the court. Lakers guard Austin Reaves commented, “He said it’s not my ball to give away, which was like … I’ve never heard that.”

In a surprising turn, Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo intervened, retrieving the ball from the attendant and personally handing it over to Vanderbilt. “That shows a lot of class,” Reaves said of Antetokounmpo’s gesture.

Thiero, who missed the start of the season due to a knee surgery, expressed gratitude after the game, saying, “At first I didn’t realize it was all for me. I’m very thankful for this team. That shows how connected we are.”

Thiero was selected by the Lakers with the 36th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. The rookie’s debut came at a crucial time, as the Lakers faced injuries to key players, including Marcus Smart and Rui Hachimura.

Head coach JJ Redick praised Thiero’s energy during his debut, highlighting his contributions on both ends of the court. “He had a couple of great plays,” Redick mentioned, excited about Thiero’s development throughout the season.

After the game, Thiero was officially presented with the game ball by Dončić, further solidifying a memorable night for the rookie.

The Lakers improved to 10-4 on the season and are currently ranked No. 4 in the Western Conference, positioning them well as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Utah Jazz.