NBA’s Most Valuable Player of the Year Giannis Antetokoumpo is on top of the world, having achieved recognition as being one of the best basketball players across the globe.
The talented and dedicated athlete has now also signed a long-term deal with leading sports brand Nike, who will be releasing a signature shoe, the Nike Greek Freak, along with matching apparel, which will be available for purchase very soon!
To honour Giannis and his humble beginnings, which started in Athens, where Antetokounmpo and his brothers were born, Nike has released 5 videos highlighting Giannis' journey to the top, which included plenty of tough times but also a lot of love and strong ties with his family and friends who are all proud of Giannis and his incredible achievements.
Video 1 – Self-made: Growing up in Athens, Giannis first learned to hustle by selling goods on the street. It wasn’t until the age of 12 when he discovered a different opportunity to provide for his family – the game of basketball. The tall, skinny kid hit the gym determined to create a better future for the Antetokounmpo’s.
Episode 2- Angels: Everybody eats – that’s the mindset Giannis learned from local cafe owner, Giannis Tsiggas. After a full day of hoops, Mr. Giannis would feed the Antetokounmpo brothers and encourage them to continue chasing their dreams. Giannis did just that, growing stronger and more dedicated to the game while attracting scouts from Europe and the U.S.
Episode 3- Coming to America: Giannis’ life changed overnight when he was drafted 15th by the Milwaukee Bucks. His first time in America and away from his family, Giannis found comfort through the support of Greek fans in the U.S. who always showed up to his games.
Episode 4- Achieving Greatness: Giannis refuses to be outworked. His coaches and trainers watch in disbelief as the Greek Freak continues to up his game. He has fire in his heart that’s fueling his greatness.
Episode 5- Zoom Freak 1: Giannis used to share a single pair of basketball shoes with his brother. 10 years later, he gets his own signature shoe. The Zoom Freak 1 is yet another considerable step in an already incredible journey. And it’s just getting started.
