Kostas Antetokounmpo may be fresh into the Euroleague but he has sure made a big impact so far with LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne scoring the winning basket against the defending champions Anadolu EFES in France.
The Greek big man went up high to take care of a Dylan Osetkowski missed shot as he outjumped everyone to grab the ball with both hands and put it home to hand TJ Parker’s squad the 75-73 victory.
ASVEL currently sports a perfect record of 3-0, but Antetokounmpo said there really isn’t a secret to their success, “We all just try to come in and play hard, that’s it really. Nothing more than that, play hard and out in a good effort.”
Antetokounmpo was the third of four sons born to Veronica and Charles in Athens, Greece where his childhood was not the easiest but despite the many challenges the family had, their bond is what made the family relationship so special.
Following the 2020/21 season, Antetokounmpo decided to go overseas and continue his progress in Europe to join a team owned by a former NBA great in his own right.
“It was my decision along with my family. I felt I needed to get some game experience and ASVEL Villeurbanne was a great fit for me as a player. I am happy as to where I’m at. Tony Parker played an influence and coach TJ Parker guided me as what I felt would be a great move.
So far, the European adventure has been better than advertised for Antetokounmpo and being a part of a winning team makes it all that much better, “It has been pretty good. I didn’t put any expectations on myself but I play hard and I believe that I am doing a good job of it. I am happy that we are winning and that is the most important thing.”
As for the NBA, that seems to be something that should it happen down the line, then great, however, he has other goals on his mind, “I don’t know, hopefully, one day. But right now the goal is to get better every day and help my team win.”
