The Greek Freak’s Incredible Rise to Fame

by Lucas Abiy, age 7

Milwaukee Bucks star player Giannis Antetokounmpo was born in Greece on December 6, 1994. Giannis has always been very close to his family. Giannis has four brothers, Francis, Thanasis, Kotas, and Alex. Giannis’ mom gave him and his brothers both Greek and Nigerian names. Giannis’ Nigerian name is Ougko.

In Lagos, Nigeria, Giannis’ family was poor. His parents, Charles and Veronica, decided to move from their home country to Athens, Greece, in search of other opportunities. During his early life, Giannis and his siblings worked to contribute to their family. Giannis sold purses and sunglasses on the streets of his neighborhood in Athens.

Since they arrived in Greece without proper documentation, Giannis’s family lived in a constant state of fear and uncertainty. Basketball served as an escape for Giannis’ life. Giannis was scouted by Spiros Velliniatis while playing basketball with his brothers and began playing professional basketball in Greece shortly after.

Giannis is 6 foot 11 inches tall and has a huge wingspan and hands, which are an advantage when playing the sport. In 2013, he caught the attention of the Milwaukee Bucks. The Bucks chose Giannis Antetokoumpo with the 15th overall NBA draft pick. The Bucks eventually made him their starting point guard in 2016, even though he is taller than most players in that position. Since Giannis' father used to play soccer in Nigeria, he taught his son Giannis to be quick on his feet, making him a good choice as a point guard.

Giannis works out every day, even after games. Giannis has a variety of workouts to strengthen his muscles and improve his game. After a lost game, he practices from every angle and distance replaying the game. Giannis was rewarded with a 100 million dollar contract after working with the Bucks for one year. Giannis Antetokoumpo gets better at basketball every year and was selected as a starter for the all-star game.

Giannis is a great player and has elevated the Milwaukee Bucks; his speed and intelligence make him one of the best NBA players.

[Source: Sports All Stars]