Even though he is primarily known as the Milwaukee Bucks’ franchise player, Giannis Antetokounmpo is also recognized as the best Greek baller on the planet. Just recently, though, the two-time MVP shared his feelings about playing for his country’s basketball national team.
Before transitioning to the NBA, Antetokounmpo honed his skills in the Greek and Spanish professional leagues, catching the eye of scouts and leading to his selection by the Bucks in the 2013 NBA Draft.
Despite a quiet rookie season, Antetokounmpo’s subsequent years saw him blossom into one of the league’s premier stars. He was named the NBA’s Most Improved Player in 2017 and has since won two MVP awards, Defensive Player of the Year, a Finals MVP, and a championship with the Bucks in 2021.
Over the past decade, the Greek Freak has become the cornerstone of the Bucks franchise, transforming from a raw prospect into an elite, dominant forward. While recent seasons have brought playoff disappointments, Antetokounmpo remains a global icon, with off-court philanthropic and charity work, as well as a commitment to represent Greece in the upcoming Olympics.
Despite the ups and downs, Antetokounmpo’s journey from overseas prodigy to NBA superstar has solidified his status as one of the league’s most captivating and impactful players of the modern era.
Milwaukee Bucks Star Giannis Antetokounmpo Gets Real on Playing for Greece National Team
With Antetokounmpo onboard, Greece’s national team for the Paris Olympics just got a serious boost. In an article posted on Basketnews, the Bucks’ All-Star forward shed some light on his true feelings about playing for his country.
“”I can’t wait to get into practice. I’ve been here for 2-3 training sessions. We have seen videos, and I have talked for many hours with coach Vasilis [Spanoulis]. This is what the national team needs. A man who has given incredible moments to Greek basketball, either with Olympiacos, Panathinaikos, or the national team.
With tremendous experience as a player, but also as a coach over the last three years and as someone whom the players follow, I look forward to being on the floor, to him coaching us and achieving something beautiful,” Giannis added.
Antetokounmpo has played for Greece since 2013. He also represented Greece in the EuroBasket tournament, leading the team to the finals in 2022.
It remains to be seen how the Bucks’ star will perform on the global stage within a few months. In any case, a lot of people will be anticipating his performance, especially against Team USA.
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