Today, Explained An MVP for the world
Aug 7, 2021
In this discussion, Mirin Fader, a writer at The Ringer and author of the book 'Giannis,' explores the extraordinary life of basketball star Giannis Antetokounmpo. From hawking goods on the streets of Greece to clinching an NBA championship, Giannis's journey is a powerful tale of resilience. Fader delves into the struggles of identity, overcoming adversity as the son of Nigerian immigrants, and navigating his path to success in the U.S. Celebrate his evolution into a symbol of hope and inspiration for many.
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Early Struggles in Greece
- Giannis Antetokounmpo's parents, Charles and Veronica, emigrated from Nigeria to Greece due to economic hardship and political unrest.
- Undocumented, the family struggled financially, selling trinkets on the streets to survive and facing discrimination.
Family Bonds and Racism
- Despite financial hardship and facing neo-Nazis and racism, the family remained close.
- Giannis often shared his food with his younger brothers, prioritizing their well-being.
Discovering Basketball
- Giannis's initial passion was soccer, not basketball.
- He only began playing basketball at 13 after Spiros Velliniatis, recognizing his athleticism, invited him to join a local team.
