WATCH: Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jae Crowder get into Dennis Schroder after dangerous foul mid-air

In Thursday night's matchup between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Brooklyn Nets, tensions rose between Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jae Crowder and Dennis Schroder.

The Bucks led 67-58 at the 6:50 mark of the third quarter, Following a basket by Mikal Bridges off an offensive rebound that narrowed the gap, the Bucks sought to respond swiftly. They looked to their two-time MVP, Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The Bucks were cognizant of the defensive strategy whenever Antetokounmpo set a screen for Damian Lillard. In such scenarios, the defense's primary objective was to stifle Lillard's drive, potentially creating an opportunity for the "Greek Freak" to penetrate freely toward the basket.

As Brook Lopez executed a well-timed alley-oop pass to Antetokounmpo, who had positioned himself adeptly, the plan seemed poised for success. However, a defensive switch saw the smaller guard Dennis Schroder tasked with guarding Antetokounmpo.

In an attempt to impede Antetokounmpo's dunk, Schroder resorted to physicality, pushing him in mid-air. Consequently, Giannis lost control and landed heavily on his back.

As the two-time MVP lay on the ground, tensions escalated on the court. Jae Crowder, visibly displeased with Schroder's aggressive play, wasted no time in confronting him for what he perceived as a threat to their superstar.

Meanwhile, Schroder raised his hands and approached Giannis to engage in dialogue. Antetokounmpo then appeared to make contact with Schroder's face as he rose off the floor before walking away in anger.

Here's the video:

The two had to be separated, and following an official review for potential player altercation, all three players were given technical fouls, including a personal foul on Schroder.

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Giannis Antetokounmpo returns for Milwaukee Bucks after two-game absence

Giannis Antetokounmpo returned to the starting lineup for the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday against the Brooklyn Nets after sitting out two games due to a left hamstring ailment.

The two-time MVP had been sidelined with tendinopathy in his hamstring, according to the team. Tendinopathy typically arises from overuse and is characterized by persistent pain in the affected area.

Despite his return, the Milwaukee Bucks were not operating at full capacity. Khris Middleton, who played 33 minutes in the 122-119 loss to Boston, did not play against Brooklyn with the Bucks aiming to manage his workload as he recovers from a sprained left ankle.