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Full Name: Giannis Sina Ugo Antetokounmpo
Nickname: The Greek Freak
Date of Birth: December 6, 1994
Place of Birth: Athens, Greece
Height: 6 ft 11 in (211 cm)
Weight: 242 lbs (110 kg)
Team: Milwaukee Bucks (NBA)
Position: Power Forward / Center
Early Life
Giannis Antetokounmpo was born in Athens, Greece, to Nigerian immigrants Charles and Veronica Antetokounmpo. Despite his Greek birthplace, Giannis and his family faced challenges in gaining Greek citizenship due to the strict laws. Growing up in Sepolia, a suburb of Athens, Giannis and his brothers helped support their family by selling items on the streets.
Basketball Beginnings
Giannis began playing basketball at the age of 13. His talent caught the attention of scouts, and he joined the youth team of Filathlitikos, a local basketball club in Athens. By 2012, his potential was undeniable, and he played for the senior team in Greece's second-tier league.
NBA Career
Giannis declared for the NBA Draft in 2013 and was selected 15th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks. Over the years, he developed from a raw prospect into one of the most dominant players in NBA history.
2016-17: Giannis became the first player in NBA history to finish in the top 20 in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks during a single season.
2018-19 and 2019-20: He won back-to-back NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, joining the likes of Michael Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon by also winning the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2020.
2021: Giannis led the Bucks to their first NBA Championship in 50 years, earning the NBA Finals MVP with a legendary 50-point performance in Game 6.
Playing Style
Giannis is known for his incredible athleticism, versatility, and relentless drive. His ability to dominate on both ends of the court has earned him the nickname "The Greek Freak." He is a tenacious scorer, rebounder, and defender who consistently leads his team by example.
Off the Court
Giannis is admired for his humility, work ethic, and devotion to his family. His rise from poverty to NBA superstardom has made him an inspirational figure worldwide. He has been involved in philanthropy, supporting causes in Greece, Nigeria, and Milwaukee.
Awards and Achievements
2× NBA MVP (2019, 2020)
NBA Finals MVP (2021)
NBA Champion (2021)
Defensive Player of the Year (2020)
7× NBA All-Star (2017–2023)
5× All-NBA First Team
NBA All-Defensive First Team (multiple times)
Personal Life
Giannis is married to Mariah Riddlesprigger, and the couple has two sons. His brothers, Thanasis and Kostas, are also professional basketball players, with Thanasis playing alongside him on the Milwaukee Bucks.
Giannis' journey from a struggling immigrant in Greece to an NBA superstar embodies the essence of hard work, perseverance, and determination.
