A mother’s story about encounter with Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has become a source of inspiration and life lesson.
Aug 6, 2024; Paris, France; Greece small forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) runs onto the court before the game against Germany during a menís basketball quarterfinal game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Accor Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Aug 6, 2024; Paris, France; Greece small forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) runs onto the court before the game against Germany during a men’s basketball quarterfinal game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Accor Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
The Greek Freak was in Athens early this month as part of his preparations for his team’s participation in EuroBasket 2025. They had several friendlies and although he played just two games out of seven, one fan got the rare opportunity not just to see him play but also have a picture with the NBA star.
Daniele Buonfrate shared her story on Instagram about the encounter her family had with the Bucks star. She said they were in Athens to watch Greece’s match against Latvia. Problem was they only got two tickets and they are family of four. It’s as if they were blessed by the heavens as it was Giannis himself arrived in front of them.
“I parked randomly, we turned the corner and… an unexpected wonder: right in front of us we recognized the unmistakable silhouette of a giant… Giannis!” she wrote.
She said Antetokounmpo could not accept it that the other members won’t be able to watch and so, he offered to arrange tickets for them. He pulled through according to the mother. It was not just random tickets.
“We had met one of the brightest NBA stars, we had the chance to express our admiration, we took lots of pictures, and we were even going to be his guests at the game… The next day we discovered where he had reserved our seats: right next to his family… It was incredible.”
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s human side
Antetokounmpo may be a force of nature on the court. A perennial MVP candidate. But off the court, he’s just a gentle giant.
The two-time MVP adores his fans, especially the kids. He once had a moment with a kid who drew him that made fans do ugly-cry. He also gives his worn shoes to the kids in the venue from time to time.
Another thing admirable about him is his love for his family. That’s what Mrs. Buonfrate emphasized in her encounter with him. Giannis also made sure that her son will go the right path when it comes to family.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
Oct 23, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) gives his autographed sneakers to a young fan after a victory against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
“Before saying goodbye, he turned to Carlo and told him: “Always listen to your parents, always work hard at school and in training, and take care of your sister,'” the fan added.
Her comments were filled with admiration.
“A few weeks ago Doncic, today Giannis. Nice to see the human side of champions that we often only admire on TV,” one commenter wrote.
“A true gem and a rare character. I am very happy that your family had this experience. All the best, greetings from Greece,” said another.
Antetokounmpo is currently with Greece basketball team in Cyprus for EuroBasket 2025 and they are looking good so far with 3-0 record.
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