Giannis Antetokounmpo came to the NBA raw when he was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks. He was relatively unknown coming from Greece. Even the commissioner can’t pronounce his surname.
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Dec 28, 2013; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Kevin Martin (23) attempts to move the ball against Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) at the BMO Harris Bradley Center. Minnesota defeated Milwaukee 117-95. Mandatory Credit: Mary Langenfeld-USA TODAY Sports
He was young but he got the athleticism and all it takes is some getting used to to pro action and a little more polishing. Great thing for him, he got two of the fiercest and most fundamental competitors to help him on that department.
Kevin Garnett joined Bucks legend Marques Johnson in a Hear District episode courtesy of the team’s official Youtube account and recalled the time he met the very raw Antetokounmpo.
It was in 2016, he said, when he first noticed the Greek Freak and then got to know his game and personality more when he worked out with him in summer of that year. Giannis bulked up and then went on to win the Most Improved award in 2017.
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Jan 2, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kevin Garnett (21) looks to pass as Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) defends him in the first quarter at Target Center. The Bucks win 95-85. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
“The Eurostep was coming in and I thought he was able to use the Euro better than anybody, especially in transition,” Garnett said.
“He wanted more knowledge of traps and one-on-one options, back to the basket, moves that were in the paint. So I showed him things that would absolutely help him.”
Kobe Bryant is another Giannis Antetokounmpo mentor
Garnett provided the big man stuff and the late Kobe Bryant also helped with the footwork and post moves.
Bryant, who retired in 2016, was among those who believed in Antetokounmpo’s potential. Giannis asked for a challenge from the Lakers legend and he challenged him to win an MVP.
Garnett is speaking for the Black Mamba when it comes to Antetokounmpo’s growth. He believes the latter was able to impart his Mamba Mentality to the Bucks star.
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Dec 9, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Kobe Bryant (24) hugs Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kevin Garnett (21) before the game at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
“He picked up the energy, and I unlocked the fire. Kobe unlocked the fire. When he goes baseline and gives that one step back and he fades, I feel so proud,” Garnett said.
Garnett said he is proud like a father. Bryant also expressed satisfaction for Antetokounmpo’s growth before he passed away in 2020.
Now, all three of them will meet in the Hall of Fame.
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