Giannis Antetokounmpo has made history, again.
Antetokounmpo becomes just the third player in league history to win MVP and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season, joining only Hall of Famers Michael Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon.
In his seventh season, the 25-year-old averaged 29.5 points (5th in NBA) and 13.6 rebounds (2nd in NBA) per game, which were both career-high marks, in addition to dishing out 5.6 assists and shooting 55.3% from the field.
— Giannis Antetokounmpo (@Giannis_An34) September 18, 2020
However, the ‘Greek Freak’ isn’t so keen about being called a two-time MVP after the Milwaukee Bucks were eliminated in the second round of the play-offs after compiling a league-best 56-17 record. “Don’t call me a two-time MVP until I’m a champion,” Antetokounmpo said.
“I’m happy for this award but I want more. You can never take these moments for granted. Obviously I’m disappointed in not being able to help my team get to the third round, but at the end of the day I know I have to get better, get my team to improve,” he continued.
“Nothing can take away this award, I worked really hard, my teammates helped me,” added Giannis. “When I’m done with the game I want to be a champion, I want to be proud of what I have accomplished”.
Back-to-back 🇬🇷@Giannis_An34's 2019-20 #KiaMVP #NBAMixtape! pic.twitter.com/hahNKOD0Ih
— NBA (@NBA) September 18, 2020
“We are extremely grateful to witness Giannis earn the NBA’s Most Valuable Player award for the second consecutive season and send congratulations to him and his family,” said Bucks General Manager Jon Horst. “Giannis is an elite player and this historic achievement is a testament to his superior work ethic, character and determination to improve every day. He is a special player and an even better person, which makes it that much more gratifying that he is again recognized as our league’s MVP.”
“What Giannis does for our team on both ends of the court, every night, is extraordinary,” said Bucks Head Coach Mike Budenholzer. “As a teammate, he sets the bar for all of us through his incredible work ethic, his unselfishness and his drive to be the best. He impacts all of us as a player and a person, and we’re proud to congratulate him once again on being named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player.”
Two in a row! Congratulations to @Giannis_An34 for winning back to back NBA MVP awards – an amazing feat. He is a true inspiration on and off the court. Greece is very proud.
Μπράβο Γιάννη!
— Prime Minister GR (@PrimeministerGR) September 18, 2020
Blessings to @Giannis_An34 for his #KiaMVP!
A proud day for Greece and America, the land of aspirations.#NBAAwards— Elpidophoros (@Elpidophoros) September 18, 2020
