Home/NBA

USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Giannis Antetokounmpo is one of the best players in the NBA today. The reigning two-time MVP has proven that he is one of the elite players in the NBA right now and has transformed the Milwaukee Bucks into perennial championship contenders since his rise to superstardom. Giannis is also the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, and he showed why tonight.

Giannis Antetokounmpo with a big-time block

During the game against the Atlanta Hawks, Giannis Antetokounmpo had a monster block against DeAndre Hunter. Hunter was running with the ball to the rim, but Antetokounmpo would not let him get the bucket and swatted the ball away in thunderous fashion. Antetokounmpo’s performance got the Bucks a victory over the Atlanta Hawks.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

READ MORE: The Workout Routine of Giannis Antetokounmpo That Was Responsible For His Transformation

Antetokounmpo became the first player since Michael Jordan to win MVP and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season. It was a true testament to his rise. Antetokounmpo was the 15th pick in the 2013 NBA draft and has risen through the ranks over the past few years to solidify himself as one of the best players in the league.

The ‘Greek Freak’ is still not a champion

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Antetokounmpo has been so impressive throughout his career, that other NBA legends have taken notice. NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal even relinquished his ‘Superman’ nickname to the ‘Greek Freak’ and said that Giannis is the modern-day version of himself. Clearly, Antetokounmpo has caused people to take note of his freak athleticism.

USA Today via Reuters

However, despite his success in the NBA, Giannis is not satisfied with his career. He has stated that his ultimate goal still remains the same; winning the NBA championship. He has had collapses in the playoffs over the past few years, against the Toronto Raptors and the Miami Heat. However, his motivation has still not wavered, and he wants to go on again this season.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

READ MORE: Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo Compares His Playoff Struggles to That of Michael Jordan

The Milwaukee Bucks have done their best to put more pieces around him. During the off-season, the Bucks traded for Jrue Holiday in order to provide Giannis with a proper point guard. The combination of Giannis, Holiday, and Khris Middleton could be the driving force for the Milwaukee Bucks making a run to the NBA Finals this year; but Giannis must deliver for the Bucks.