The season is up and ready to resume in a few days, and the MVP debate on LeBron James [https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/lebron-james/] vs Giannis Antetokounmpo [https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/giannis-antetokounmpo/] hasn’t shifted an inch. They hold an age difference of 10 years and are simultaneously gunning for the same title. Well, former Lakers legend, Magic Johnson definitely knows his choice. It’s tough to say who’ll take home the award in the end, when we look at LeBron and Giannis acing this season in their own ways. While LeBron is leading the assists with a high average of 10.6, the Greek Freak is placed third in points and rebounds per game. LEBRON JAMES WAS INCREDIBLE THIS SEASON The 35-year-old Lakers forward will have an edge over the young talent in the upcoming playoffs in terms of experience. Moreover, LeBron played some mind-blowing games until the season got suspended. He seems to be taking off from the same momentum, as witnessed in the scrimmages as well. Former star Magic Johnson has no doubt that LeBron will be the MVP. Johnson recently tweeted, “LeBron James is definitely the MVP this season”. When asked about this statement, Johnson seemed quite impressed with LeBron on the latest episode of ‘The Jump [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZzVQd_CVEnI]‘. “LeBron affects the game in so many different ways and this year he’s almost averaging a triple-double. When you think about the way he’s playing defense and the way he’s been an incredible leader, he has really brought those guys together and kept them going.” MAGIC JOHNSON IS IMPRESSED WITH HOW LEBRON IS LEADING THE LAKERS Seeing his assist numbers, it’s quite evident that LeBron believes in team plays. Magic also feels that Anthony Davis [https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/anthony-davis/] has become a lethal player alongside the big man. “I think LeBron has played ‘unbelievable’ this season and took Anthony Davis’s game to a whole another level. So I’m really impressed with LeBron. Now, Giannis, no question, he’s had an incredible season. It wouldn’t surprise me if he was named the MVP. But LeBron James in my mind has definitely won the MVP.” LeBron and Giannis’s teams are also the season favorites respectively and are reigning over their conference tables with pride. We are left to see when the two clash and what do most analysts have to say about this MVP title then. Source: YouTube – The Jump [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZzVQd_CVEnI] Twitter – Magic Johnson [https://twitter.com/MagicJohnson/status/1285573034900811778] 

Lakers legend Magic Johnson has no doubt about choosing LeBron James for this
season's MVP title. Look what he has to say.

https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0fa6590aa191e8ef5690fd8e39d507a0?s=96&d=mm&r=g

Pavni Ahuja

blockquote

script

strong

Lakers Legend Magic Johnson Picks His NBA MVP Candidate

‘Prayers for Tim Hardaway’: Fans Worried, Father Rushes to Locker Room as
Pistons Star Apparently Suffers Triple Head Injury

New Chapter for Boyfriend Connor McCaffery as Caitlin Clark Has Another Reason
to Attend Butler Games

Shaquille O’Neal’s Daughter With Arnetta Yardbourgh Defies Family Interests With
Truth About Dad’s Profession

Despite $657,639 Benefit, Major Heartbreak Awaits Indiana Fever Following
Stephanie White’s Promising Gesture

Caitlin Clark Hints at Ditching $1 Million As Stephanie White’s Indiana Return
Gets a Major Boost

<h2><b>Everything to Know About the Los Angeles Lakers</b></h2>
<h2><b>History</b></h2>
The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most popular sports teams in the world. The Lakers are also a very successful team, and it started right from the beginning. The franchise began in 1947 as the Minneapolis Lakers in the National Basketball League and won the title in 1948. The team then joined the rival Basketball Association of America, which would later become the NBA in 1948. The Lakers continued their successful run in the BAA as well. But the team struggled financially in the mid-50s and relocated to Los Angeles in 1960 as the Los Angeles Lakers.

<img class="aligncenter wp-image-381910 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/20200918202141/lal_primary-logo-scaled-1.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1189" />

<strong>Read More: <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-news-why-did-kobe-bryant-have-such-a-disturbing-relationship-with-his-parents/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Why did Kobe Bryant have such a disturbing relationship with his parents?</a></strong>
<h2><b>Who is the owner of the Los Angeles Lakers?</b></h2>
Dr. Jerry Buss purchased the Los Angeles Lakers along with the Forum and NHL's Los Angeles Kings for $67 million in 1979 from then-owner Jack Kent Cooke. The Lakers thrived under the leadership of Buss as he revolutionized virtually the entire league.

When Dr. Buss passed away in 2013, the ownership was transferred to his six children through a family trust. The Buss Family Trusts is the majority owner of the Lakers now with Jeanie Buss acting as the controlling owner. She became the first female controlling owner to win the title when the Lakers clinched the championship in 2020.

<strong style="font-size: 16px">Read More: </strong><strong style="font-size: 16px"><a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-throwback-relive-the-final-battle-between-kobe-bryant-and-lebron-james/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-wpel-link="internal">NBA Throwback: Relive the Final Battle Between Kobe Bryant and LeBron James</a></strong>
<div class="thb-post-title-bottom">
<h2><b>Who are the team sponsors?</b></h2>
The Los Angeles Lakers are sponsored by several major brands. Notably, the Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers signed a stadium-naming rights deal with the cryptocurrency platform Crypto.com. According to reports, it was a 20-year $700 million contract. So, the Staples Center was officially renamed Crypto.com Arena.

While the official kit sponsor of the Lakers is Nike, the team signed a deal with bibigo as the official jersey patch partner in 2021. Some of the other notable sponsors of the team are American Express, Beyond Meat, BioSteel, Budweiser, Comerica, Delta and Pepsi.
<p class="thb-post-title-inline-author"><strong style="font-size: 16px">Read More:</strong> <a style="font-size: 16px" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-la-lakers-where-does-lebron-james-live-all-that-we-know-about-his-massive-and-luxurious-villa/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Where Does LeBron James Live? All That We Know About His Luxurious Villa</a></p>

</div>

[caption id="attachment_1647883" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-1647883" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-04-03T021203Z_617747669_MT1USATODAY20381083_RTRMADP_3_NBA-LOS-ANGELES-LAKERS-AT-HOUSTON-ROCKETS.jpg" alt="LeBron James and Anthony Davis" width="1920" height="1280" /> Apr 2, 2023; Houston, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forwards Anthony Davis (3) and LeBron James (6) signal to teammates against the Houston Rockets during the third quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
<h2><b>Los Angeles Lakers roster</b></h2>
<table style="height: 742px" width="441">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">LeBron James</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Small Forward</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">38</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Anthony Davis</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Center</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">30</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Austin Reaves</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Shooting Guard</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">25</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">D’Angelo Russell</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Point Guard</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">27</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Dennis Schroder</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Point Guard</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">29</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Rui Hachimura</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Power Forward</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">25</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Lonnie Walker IV</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Guard</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">24</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Mo Bamba</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Center</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">25</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Jarred Vanderbilt</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Power Forward</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">24</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Malik Beasley</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Shooting Guard</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">26</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Tristan Thompson</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Center</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">32</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Troy Brown Jr.</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Small Forward</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">23</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<strong style="font-size: 16px">Read More:</strong> <a style="font-size: 16px" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-news-hilarious-when-shaquille-oneal-challenged-michael-phelps-to-a-swimming-contest/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">When Shaquille O'Neal challenged Michael Phelps to a swimming contest</a>
<h2><b>Achievements and wins</b></h2>
The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the two most successful teams in the league with 17 championships each. The Lakers' winning culture started right after the team was founded in 1947 as they won the NBL title in 1948. The Minneapolis Lakers continued winning titles after moving to the BAA as well. Then the BAA merged with NBL to form the NBA in 1949. So, the Lakers' 1948 title win is not considered by the NBA as an official championship. However, the 1949 championship is recognized since the team joined the BAA.

The dominance of the Lakers continued in the 50s as they won titles in 1950, 1952, 1953 and 1954, led by legendary center George Mikan. However, things went south after Mikan retired in 1954 as the team struggled on and off the court. Because of the financial troubles, the franchise was relocated to Los Angeles in 1960. However, the team still found it hard to get back to its winning ways. After a dry spell that lasted years, the team won the 1972 title with the help of NBA legend Wilt Chamberlain. It was followed by another eight years of disappointment.

In 1979, Dr. Jerry Buss became the majority owner of the Lakers with the intention to turn the team's luck around. 1979 also marked the entry of NBA legend Earvin 'Magic' Johnson when the team drafted him as the first pick. Thus began the era of Showtime Lakers. With the help of Magic, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and others, the Lakers lifted five championships in 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987 and 1988. The team then lost the 1989 and 1991 NBA Finals.

The Lakers struggled again until Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant started working their magic. The duo led the Lakers to three straight championships from 2000 to 2002, a feat even the Showtime Lakers could not achieve. O'Neal, Bryant and the team dismantled their opponents on their way to all three titles, displaying utter dominance. After Shaq left the team in 2004, Kobe became the main man. He then led the team to two straight rings in 2009 and 2010. Recently, superstar LeBron James helped the team win their record 17th championship in 2020.
<h2><b>The Lakers' rivalry with the Boston Celtics</b></h2>
The Boston Celtics and the Lakers are the two most successful teams in the league with 17 championships each. The Lakers and Celtics also have one of the biggest and longest rivalries in sports history. The rivalry between the two started in 1959 when they first faced each other in the Finals. The two have battled in the Finals a record 12 times in which the Celtics mostly came out on top.

In 1959, the Celtics swept the Lakers for the title. The Celtics continued their dominance over the Lakers by winning a mindboggling eight straight Finals, winning in 1959, 1962, 1963, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969 and 1984 over the Lakers. This was a massive blow to the franchise and its loyal fans who felt that their opponents were simply unbeatable. However, the Lakers finally overcame this streak and won the championship against the Celtics in 1985 and then again in 1987.

After the 1987 Finals, the Lakers and the Celtics once again locked horns in 2008 where Boston came out victorious. The teams again clashed in the 2010 Finals with the Lakers clinching the title this time. While the Celtics have won 9, the Lakers have won 3 in their 12 Finals showdowns so far.
<h2><b>How many numbers have the Lakers retired?</b></h2>
The Lakers have always been fortunate to have some of the most storied players on their roster for a long time. Therefore, so far, the team has 14 names on their rafters. The jerseys of legends George Mikan (99), Elgin Baylor (22), <span style="font-weight: 400">Jerry West (44), Wilt Chamberlain</span> (13), Gail Goodrich (25), Kareem <span style="font-weight: 400">Abdul-Jabbar (33), Magic Johnson (32), James Worthy (42), Jamaal Wilkes (52), Shaquille O’Neal (34), Kobe Bryant (8, 24) and Pau Gasol (16) have been retired. Legendary broadcaster Chick Hearn's name is also up on the rafters.</span>
<h2><b>Laker Girls: The owner's game-changing entertainment addition</b></h2>
Dr. Jerry Buss was a visionary who revolutionized the league with his entertainment and marketing ideas. The legendary team owner wanted the Lakers to be entertaining on and off the court to bring fans to the arena and to popularize the game in the country and around the world. One of Dr. Buss' important innovations was the Laker Girls.

The late owner ordered a formation of a dance squad with highly talented female dancers. While the idea received some backlash early on, it became widely accepted. While the Showtime Lakers entertained fans with their up-tempo style of play, the Laker Girls kept the crowd going with their dances during breaks.
<h2><b>Lakers on social media</b></h2>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Instagram</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.instagram.com/lakers/"><span style="font-weight: 400">@lakers</span></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Twitter</span></td>
<td><a href="https://twitter.com/Lakers/"><span style="font-weight: 400">@Lakers</span></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Facebook</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.facebook.com/losangeleslakers"><span style="font-weight: 400">@losangeleslakers</span></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Website</span></td>
<td><a href="http://www.nba.com/lakers"><span style="font-weight: 400">https://www.nba.com/lakers?tmd=1</span></a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Founded </span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">1947</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Owner</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Buss Family Trusts</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">President</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Jeanie Buss</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Conference</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">West</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">General Manager</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Rob Pelinka</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Head Coach</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Darvin Ham</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Sponsors</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Crypto.com, bibigo, Nike, etc </span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Arena</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Crypto.com Arena</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Championships</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">17</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Conference Titles</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">19</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Division Titles</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">33</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Team Value</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">$5.9 Billion</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Los Angeles Lakers

Everything to Know About the Los Angeles Lakers History The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most popular sports teams in the world. The Lakers are also a very successful team, and it started right from the beginning. The franchise began in 1947 as the Minneapolis Lakers in the National Basketball League and won the title in 1948. The team then joined the rival Basketball Association of America, which would later become the NBA in 1948. The Lakers continued their successful run in the BAA as well. But the team struggled financially in the mid-50s and relocated to Los Angeles in 1960 as the Los Angeles Lakers. Read More: Why did Kobe Bryant have such a disturbing relationship with his parents? Who is the owner of the Los Angeles Lakers? Dr. Jerry Buss purchased the Los Angeles Lakers along with the Forum and NHL&#8217;s Los Angeles Kings for $67 million in 1979 from then-owner Jack Kent Cooke. The Lakers thrived under the leadership of Buss as he revolutionized virtually the entire league. When Dr. Buss passed away in 2013, the ownership was transferred to his six children through a family trust. The Buss Family Trusts is the majority owner of the Lakers now with Jeanie Buss acting as the controlling owner. She became the first female controlling owner to win the title when the Lakers clinched the championship in 2020. Read More: NBA Throwback: Relive the Final Battle Between Kobe Bryant and LeBron James Who are the team sponsors? The Los Angeles Lakers are sponsored by several major brands. Notably, the Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers signed a stadium-naming rights deal with the cryptocurrency platform Crypto.com. According to reports, it was a 20-year $700 million contract. So, the Staples Center was officially renamed Crypto.com Arena. While the official kit sponsor of the Lakers is Nike, the team signed a deal with bibigo as the official jersey patch partner in 2021. Some of the other notable sponsors of the team are American Express, Beyond Meat, BioSteel, Budweiser, Comerica, Delta and Pepsi. Read More: Where Does LeBron James Live? All That We Know About His Luxurious Villa Apr 2, 2023; Houston, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forwards Anthony Davis (3) and LeBron James (6) signal to teammates against the Houston Rockets during the third quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports Los Angeles Lakers roster  LeBron James Small Forward 38  Anthony Davis Center 30  Austin Reaves Shooting Guard 25  D’Angelo Russell Point Guard 27  Dennis Schroder Point Guard 29  Rui Hachimura Power Forward 25  Lonnie Walker IV Guard 24  Mo Bamba Center 25  Jarred Vanderbilt Power Forward 24  Malik Beasley Shooting Guard 26  Tristan Thompson Center 32  Troy Brown Jr. Small Forward 23  Read More: When Shaquille O&#8217;Neal challenged Michael Phelps to a swimming contest Achievements and wins The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the two most successful teams in the league with 17 championships each. The Lakers&#8217; winning culture started right after the team was founded in 1947 as they won the NBL title in 1948. The Minneapolis Lakers continued winning titles after moving to the BAA as well. Then the BAA merged with NBL to form the NBA in 1949. So, the Lakers&#8217; 1948 title win is not considered by the NBA as an official championship. However, the 1949 championship is recognized since the team joined the BAA. The dominance of the Lakers continued in the 50s as they won titles in 1950, 1952, 1953 and 1954, led by legendary center George Mikan. However, things went south after Mikan retired in 1954 as the team struggled on and off the court. Because of the financial troubles, the franchise was relocated to Los Angeles in 1960. However, the team still found it hard to get back to its winning ways. After a dry spell that lasted years, the team won the 1972 title with the help of NBA legend Wilt Chamberlain. It was followed by another eight years of disappointment. In 1979, Dr. Jerry Buss became the majority owner of the Lakers with the intention to turn the team&#8217;s luck around. 1979 also marked the entry of NBA legend Earvin &#8216;Magic&#8217; Johnson when the team drafted him as the first pick. Thus began the era of Showtime Lakers. With the help of Magic, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and others, the Lakers lifted five championships in 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987 and 1988. The team then lost the 1989 and 1991 NBA Finals. The Lakers struggled again until Shaquille O&#8217;Neal and Kobe Bryant started working their magic. The duo led the Lakers to three straight championships from 2000 to 2002, a feat even the Showtime Lakers could not achieve. O&#8217;Neal, Bryant and the team dismantled their opponents on their way to all three titles, displaying utter dominance. After Shaq left the team in 2004, Kobe became the main man. He then led the team to two straight rings in 2009 and 2010. Recently, superstar LeBron James helped the team win their record 17th championship in 2020. The Lakers&#8217; rivalry with the Boston Celtics The Boston Celtics and the Lakers are the two most successful teams in the league with 17 championships each. The Lakers and Celtics also have one of the biggest and longest rivalries in sports history. The rivalry between the two started in 1959 when they first faced each other in the Finals. The two have battled in the Finals a record 12 times in which the Celtics mostly came out on top. In 1959, the Celtics swept the Lakers for the title. The Celtics continued their dominance over the Lakers by winning a mindboggling eight straight Finals, winning in 1959, 1962, 1963, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969 and 1984 over the Lakers. This was a massive blow to the franchise and its loyal fans who felt that their opponents were simply unbeatable. However, the Lakers finally overcame this streak and won the championship against the Celtics in 1985 and then again in 1987. After the 1987 Finals, the Lakers and the Celtics once again locked horns in 2008 where Boston came out victorious. The teams again clashed in the 2010 Finals with the Lakers clinching the title this time. While the Celtics have won 9, the Lakers have won 3 in their 12 Finals showdowns so far. How many numbers have the Lakers retired? The Lakers have always been fortunate to have some of the most storied players on their roster for a long time. Therefore, so far, the team has 14 names on their rafters. The jerseys of legends George Mikan (99), Elgin Baylor (22), Jerry West (44), Wilt Chamberlain (13), Gail Goodrich (25), Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (33), Magic Johnson (32), James Worthy (42), Jamaal Wilkes (52), Shaquille O’Neal (34), Kobe Bryant (8, 24) and Pau Gasol (16) have been retired. Legendary broadcaster Chick Hearn&#8217;s name is also up on the rafters. Laker Girls: The owner&#8217;s game-changing entertainment addition Dr. Jerry Buss was a visionary who revolutionized the league with his entertainment and marketing ideas. The legendary team owner wanted the Lakers to be entertaining on and off the court to bring fans to the arena and to popularize the game in the country and around the world. One of Dr. Buss&#8217; important innovations was the Laker Girls. The late owner ordered a formation of a dance squad with highly talented female dancers. While the idea received some backlash early on, it became widely accepted. While the Showtime Lakers entertained fans with their up-tempo style of play, the Laker Girls kept the crowd going with their dances during breaks. Lakers on social media  Instagram @lakers  Twitter @Lakers  Facebook @losangeleslakers  Website https://www.nba.com/lakers?tmd=1    Founded  1947  Owner Buss Family Trusts  President Jeanie Buss  Conference West  General Manager Rob Pelinka  Head Coach Darvin Ham  Sponsors Crypto.com, bibigo, Nike, etc   Arena Crypto.com Arena  Championships 17  Conference Titles 19  Division Titles 33  Team Value $5.9 Billion

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<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>Anthony Davis in 2024: Early Life, College Career, NBA Draft, Notable Records and Accolades</strong></h2>
Anthony Davis currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He started his career in the league with the New Orleans Pelicans, or New Orleans Hornets, as it was known then. The player won the NBA title with the Lakers in 2020, after he and LeBron James led them to a stunning victory. The power forward remains a premium shot-blocker and can score at will. Often derailed by injuries, when he is fit and healthy, Anthony Davis has no limits.

He made his first playoff appearance in 2015. In the next season, he signed a five-year, $145 million contract extension with the Pelicans. However, a few months into the season, Davis' season ended because of shoulder and knee injuries. Davis has several tattoos, a few visible while playing ball. Notably, he has a tattoo of Mamba as a tribute to Kobe Bryant.

[caption id="attachment_642821" align="alignnone" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-642821" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021-05-10T044523Z_175423973_MT1USATODAY16056713_RTRMADP_3_NBA-PHOENIX-SUNS-AT-LOS-ANGELES-LAKERS.jpg" alt="Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis" width="1920" height="1280" /> May 9, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (3) reacts after a dunk during the second half against the Phoenix Suns at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
<h2><b>Anthony Davis' Early Life and High School</b></h2>
Born in Chicago on March 11, 1993, Davis was raised in the Englewood neighborhood. He started his playing days in high school with Perspectives Charter School. However, not all schools have world-class facilities and he later practiced at a local church. Although he didn't become the next kid on the block, he worked hard and received late recognition and a rapid growth spurt. He transitioned from a 'little guy' to 6'10" when he entered his senior year. Obviously, Anthony Davis became the #1 player in the 2011 class.

At one time, with the Perspectives Charter school, he averaged 32 points, 22 rebounds, and 7 blocks. His quality performances led him to numerous accolades, including the 2011 McDonald's All-American Game and the 10th annual Jordan Brand Classic. He was a first-team selection to the ESPN Rise boys' high school basketball All-American team. For a young boy to gain that much recognition speaks volumes of the power forward's talent.
<h2><b>College Career at Kentucky</b></h2>
After all those high school accolades, Davis verbally agreed to join Kentucky despite offers from Ohio, DePaul, and Syracuse and became the number 1 player in the national class of 2011. Coached by John Calipari, and playing one season under him, Anthony David dominated the courts from start to finish. He became the National Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, and the Most Outstanding Player. To think of his rapid growth in college was a scary proposition for most teams.

<span style="font-weight: 400">The player set the </span>NCAA freshman records for blocks and won multiple national awards. There was no doubt that Anthony Davis would be the top player in the 2012 NBA draft. The player averaged 15.2 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 4.6 blocks per game, and led the team to its eighth NCAA championship. The block machine finally made it to the NBA after being miles apart in high school.

[caption id="attachment_846323" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-846323" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021-12-04T033703Z_1277735311_MT1USATODAY17285226_RTRMADP_3_NBA-LOS-ANGELES-CLIPPERS-AT-LOS-ANGELES-LAKERS.jpg" alt="Anthony Davis vs LA Clippers" width="1920" height="1455" /> Dec 3, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers center Serge Ibaka (9) guards Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (3) in the first half of the game at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
<h2><b>Anthony Davis' NBA Draft and New Orleans Career</b></h2>
Significantly, Anthony Davis declared himself for the 2012 NBA draft following his Kentucky Wildcats days. The New Orleans Hornets (later Pelicans) drafted Davis in 2012 and selected him as the first pick. At the 2012 NBA Draft Combine, Davis measured at 6 feet 9.25 inches (2.06 m), 221.8 pounds (100.6 kg), and had the second-longest wingspan—7 feet 5.5 inches (2.27 m)—of any player participating. It helped him to block shots easily throughout his career. Without much adaptation time, he established himself as one of the premier defenders in the league.

The player signed his first 3-year, $16 million guaranteed contract with the Hornets and made his debut against the San Antonio Spurs. He made his mark in the game, scoring 21 points but lost the matchup. However, injuries became a cause of concern for the player. Despite all the high-scoring games and blocked shots, he finished second to Damian Lillard in the Rookie of the Year award. Adding around 10 pounds in the post-season, Davis developed his post-game offense and became great in transitions. In a game against Orlando Magic, Davis scored 25 points and 15 rebounds, the youngest player in the franchise's history to do so.

He later earned an All-Star selection and made NBA teams with ease. The player led the league in blocks in 2014 (2.82 per game), becoming the youngest player to do so. Later, Victor Wembanyama broke the record in 2024. The greatest achievement in his New Orleans career became the 59-point game against the Detroit Pistons. He joined Shaquille O'Neal and Chris Webber, becoming the only players to have a 50-point game with 20 rebounds.

<span style="font-weight: 400">Earned </span><b>All-NBA and All-Defensive honors</b><span style="font-weight: 400">, making the playoffs and establishing himself as one of the league’s top power forwards as the Lakers came calling. </span>
<h2><b>Los Angeles Lakers and Championships</b></h2>
The player later requested a trade and guess where he went. The Los Angeles Lakers instantly became a championship contender as Anthony Davis joined LeBron James in 2019. He settled nicely and points came in thick and fast. 40-point games became customary as the player broke records at every instant. In a game against the Pistons, Davis set an all-time record for block percentage of 25.6%. Later in 2020, he declined the Lakers' contract offer for free agency in a bid to get a max contract of over $200 million.

Anthony Davis later led the team to the NBA championship in 2020. He and the Lakers earned their 17th NBA title, tying the Celtics' record of 17 title wins although the basketball team from Boston won their 18th. In the process, he became the first player to win an NCAA title, NBA title, Olympic gold, and FIBA World Cup. Quite an achievement, isn't it? He still plays for the Lakers, but injuries plagued him. One step forward and two steps back became a norm for the player who remains injured most of the time.

Yet, he remains crucial for the Lakers in terms of leading the team for rebounds, blocks, and scoring. Anthony Davis becomes crucial to the side heading to the 2024-25 season and hopes to win his second NBA title.

[caption id="attachment_828011" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-828011" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021-11-14T220219Z_1176712713_MT1USATODAY17165616_RTRMADP_3_NBA-SAN-ANTONIO-SPURS-AT-LOS-ANGELES-LAKERS-1.jpg" alt="Anthony Davis vs Spurs" width="1920" height="1280" /> Nov 14, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (3) dribbles a ball against San Antonio Spurs guard Derrick White (4) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
<h2><b>National Team and International Success</b></h2>
In terms of donning the Star and Stripes jersey, Anthony Davis achieved success like no other player. He won an Olympic gold in 2012 London with the customary Dream Team. They remained undefeated during the Olympic Games and won the gold medal by dominating Spain. It didn't stop there. The player then earned a selection to the US team for the 2014 FIBA World Cup. He averaged 12.3 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game in 9 games played while shooting 54.9% from the field.

Moreover, the player then returned to the 2024 U.S. Olympic team and helped them win a gold medal. He averaged 8.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists and even got 1.2 steals. Of course, there were 1.5 blocks per game while shooting 62.5% from the field. He remains one of the most decorated players in the U.S. national team's history.
<h2><b>Personal Life and Esports Career</b></h2>
Notably, Anthony Davis' parents played a crucial role in his upbringing. His father Anthony Davis Sr. and mother, Erainer, taught him well at a young age. He has a twin sister, Antoinette, and an elder sister, Lesha. Moreover, Lesha followed her brother and played basketball at Daley College. Now coming to the love of his life, Anthony Davis married Marlen Polanco on September 18, 2021. The couple has three children: Nala and two boys whose names they have chosen not to disclose.

In another interesting part of his career, On June 19, 2022, Davis signed with FaZe Clan, joining Faze Clan's Nuke Squad for <i>Call of Duty</i>. <sup id="cite_ref-408" class="reference"></sup>

[caption id="attachment_3318157" align="aligncenter" width="5703"]<img class="wp-image-3318157 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/USATSI_24517398.jpg" alt="" width="5703" height="3802" /> Oct 17, 2024; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (3) dribbles against the Phoenix Suns during the second half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images[/caption]
<h2><b>Notable Records and Accolades</b></h2>
In terms of records and accolades, Anthony Davis has several records to his name. He holds records in the NCAA, the NBA and franchise stats for blocks, rebounds, and efficiency. In the NCAA, the player had the most blocks in a season by a freshman with 186 blocks. It became the fourth all-time record in the NCAA for blocks in a single season. Meanwhile, his 29 blocks in the 2011-2012 NCAA tournament are tied for second all-time. In terms of scoring, Anthony Davis' .623 FG% remains a record for a freshman. He also got 415 rebounds in 2011-2012, tied for fourth all-time in the NCAA rebounds by a freshman.

In terms of NBA records, he scored a record-breaking 52 points in the 2017 All-Star game, which shocked the fans. But Jayson Tatum broke that record in the last All-Star game by scoring 55. The records don't end there. He became the first player to record 25+ points, 25+ rebounds, 5+ assists, and 5+ steals in a game. Known for his shot-blocking, Davis led the NBA in blocks, three times.

<span style="font-weight: 400">In addition, the player scored 30+ points and 15+ rebounds in four consecutive games, which only two Lakers players achieved. Recently, he won the </span>2023 NBA In-Season Tournament<span style="font-weight: 400"> with the Lakers, setting scoring and rebounding records. Here's a list of notable accolades by Anthony Davis. </span>
<ul>
 	<li><strong>NBA Champion</strong>: Won the 2020 NBA Finals with the Lakers</li>
 	<li><strong>NBA All-Star</strong>: Nine-time NBA All-Star, including 2024</li>
 	<li><strong>All-Star Game MVP</strong>: Won in 2017</li>
 	<li><strong>All-NBA First Team</strong>: Four-time selection in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2020</li>
 	<li><strong>All-NBA Second Team</strong>: Selected in 2024</li>
 	<li><strong>NBA All-Defensive Team</strong>: Five-time selection in 2015, 2017, 2018, 2020, and 2024</li>
 	<li><strong>NBA blocks leader</strong>: Three-time leader in 2014, 2015, and 2018</li>
 	<li><strong>All-Rookie First Team</strong>: Selected in 2013</li>
 	<li><strong>NBA 75 Anniversary Team</strong>: Selected in 2021</li>
 	<li><strong>NBA Cup</strong>: Won the inaugural NBA Cup in 2023</li>
 	<li><strong>Olympic gold medals</strong>: Helped the United States win gold medals in 2016, 2024, and 2014<span class="UV3uM"> </span></li>
</ul>
<h2><strong>How to contact Anthony Davis?</strong></h2>
<strong> Anthony Davis' Twitter: </strong><a href="https://twitter.com/AntDavis23">https://twitter.com/AntDavis23</a>

<strong>Anthony Davis' Instagram: </strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/antdavis23/?hl=en">https://www.instagram.com/antdavis23/?hl=en</a>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Age</strong></td>
<td width="319">31</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Marital Status</strong></td>
<td width="319">Married</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Wife</strong></td>
<td width="319">Marlen Polanco</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Nationality</strong></td>
<td width="319">American</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Team</strong></td>
<td width="319">Los Angeles Lakers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Rings</strong></td>
<td width="319">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Height</strong></td>
<td width="319">6′ 10″ (2.08 m)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Weight</strong></td>
<td width="319">254lbs</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Wingspan</strong></td>
<td width="319">7'6"</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Shoes</strong></td>
<td width="319">Nike</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Endorsements</strong></td>
<td width="319">Saks Inc., ExxonMobil, Foot Locker, Nike, Red Bull, Beats</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Anthony Davis

Here's everything you need to know about Anthony Davis' lifestyle, personal accolades, college career and much more in his illustrious career.

Anthony Davis Archives

Anthony Davis Archives - EssentiallySports

<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center"><strong><b>Who is Giannis Antetokounmpo?</b></strong></h2>
Giannis Antetokounmpo or the<em> "Greek Freak"</em> is one of those names that have spurred the <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/" target="_self" rel="noopener">NBA</a> circuit in recent times. Born in Greece to Nigerian parents, Antetokounmpo began playing basketball for the youth teams of Filathlitikos, eventually playing for their senior team. Following this, the power forward declared himself eligible for the NBA Draft in 2013, where Antetokounmpo was drafted with the 15th overall pick by the <a class="jsx-2b55705d932ea6e9" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/milwaukee-bucks/" target="_self" rel="noopener">Milwaukee Bucks</a>, a team he has been playing for since then. He wears the No. 34 jersey.

[caption id="attachment_2593533" align="alignnone" width="5064"]<img class="size-full wp-image-2593533" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2024-01-04T034350Z_1590397656_MT1USATODAY22217926_RTRMADP_3_NBA-MILWAUKEE-BUCKS-AT-INDIANA-PACERS.jpg" alt="" width="5064" height="3379" /> Jan 3, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) in the second half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]

Over his career, Antetokounmpo has been an NBA All-Star seven times. Giannis also won two successive MVP trophies in 2019 and 2020 to solidify his status as a star in the league. After multiple seasons of being heavily criticized for his failure to win a title, the power forward silenced his critics winning his first championship and Final MVP in 2021. In the 2023-24 season, he is continuing his top form, with the Bucks now a force to be reckoned with in the East.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><b>Giannis Antetokounmpo's early life </b></h2>
Born in Athens to Nigerian immigrant parents, Charles and Veronica <span style="font-weight: 400">Antetokounmpo</span>, in 1994, Giannis Antetokounmpo grew up in a tough environment, with his family struggling to afford the basics. He started playing basketball around age 7, finding an escape and a passion for the sport. By his mid-teens, he had left school to focus on helping provide for his family, taking odd jobs around the city.

Basketball became more than just a game for the young athlete â€“ it was, perhaps, an opening for a better life. That once far-off dream, however, was soon realized, with Antetokounmpo's first-round selection in the 2013 NBA draft.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><b>Giannis Antetokounmpo's wife and children</b></h2>
<p id="mntl-sc-block_1-0" class="comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html">Giannis Antetokounmpo fathers three children with his fiancee Mariah Riddlesprigger: his two sons Liam, 4, and Maverick Shai, 2, and his new-born daughter Eva Brooke. He has four brothers, Francis, Thanasis, Kostas, and Alex. Two of his siblings are contemporaries in the league, with Kostas securing a championship in 2020 with the Los Angeles Lakers and Thanasis with the Bucks in 2021.</p>

<h2 style="text-align: center"><b>Giannis Antetokounmpo's career timeline</b></h2>
<span style="font-weight: 400">Drafted 15th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2013 NBA draft, Antetokounmpo was n</span><span style="font-weight: 400">amed to the NBA All-Rookie second team in his first season. Over the next few years, he quickly exceeded expectations, growing into a versatile scorer, lockdown defender, and facilitator all in an athletic 6â€™11â€ frame.</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">He broke out in his third season, averaging 16.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game and earning the Most Improved Player award. In the 2019-20 season, the Greek had another one of his finer campaigns, putting up 27.7 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists to lead the Bucks to their best-ever record in the NBA. </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400">(56-17). </span></i>

<span style="font-weight: 400">In 2021, Giannis delivered on his promise by spearheading the Bucks to the NBA title and earning a Finals MVP title in the process. He then went on to sign one of the largest contracts in NBA history, a 5-year $228 million extension with the Bucks.</span>
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center"><strong>Giannis Antetokoumpo's major achievements</strong></h2>
<span style="font-weight: 400">NBA Champion (2021)</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">NBA Finals MVP (2021)</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">2Ã— NBA Most Valuable Player (2019, 2020)</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">7Ã— NBA All-Star (2017â€“2023)</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">NBA All-Star Game MVP (2021)</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">5Ã— All-NBA First Team (2019â€“2023)</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">2Ã— All-NBA Second Team (2017, 2018)</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2020)</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">4Ã— NBA All-Defensive First Team (2019â€“2022)</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2017)</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">NBA Most Improved Player (2017)</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2014)</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">NBA 75th Anniversary Team</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">FIBA EuroBasket Top Scorer (2022)</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Euroscar Player of the Year (2018)</span>
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center"><strong>Giannis Antetokounmpo stats</strong></h2>
<span style="font-weight: 400">Games played - 758</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Points per game - 23.1</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Assists per game - 4.8</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Rebounds per game - 9.7</span>

<b>Playoffs stats:</b>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Games played - 79</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Points per game - 26.6</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Assists per game - 5.2</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Rebounds per game - 12.0</span>
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center"><strong>Giannis Antetokounmpo's 2024 net worthÂ </strong></h2>
Giannis Antetokounmpo's net worth in 2024 is estimated to be $70 million. In October, after much speculation, the Bucks and Giannis agreed on a massive super-max contract, which tied the 'Greek Freak' with the Bucks for five more years.

The deal is worth close to $228 million and the player is guaranteed the entire amount, including an opt-out in the fourth year. <span style="font-weight: 400">Notably, he currently averages a salary of approximately $45.64 million through his 10-year career in the NBA.</span>
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center">Giannis Antetokounmpo contract</h2>
Here is a breakdown of his contract extension with the Bucks:
<table style="border-collapse: collapse;width: 100%">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td class="table-key" style="height: 24px;width: 32.5123%">2023/24</td>
<td class="table-value" style="height: 24px;width: 133.226%">$45,640,084</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td class="table-key" style="height: 24px;width: 32.5123%">2024/25</td>
<td class="table-value" style="height: 24px;width: 133.226%">$48,787,676</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td class="table-key" style="height: 24px;width: 32.5123%">2025/26</td>
<td class="table-value" style="height: 24px;width: 133.226%">$57,604,894</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td class="table-key" style="height: 24px;width: 32.5123%">2026/27</td>
<td class="table-value" style="height: 24px;width: 133.226%">$62,213,285</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td class="table-key" style="height: 24px;width: 32.5123%">2027/28</td>
<td class="table-value" style="height: 24px;width: 133.226%">$66,821,676</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2><strong style="text-align: center">Endorsement deals of Giannis Antetokounmpo</strong></h2>
The seven-time NBA All-Star was the 19th Highest-Paid Athlete in the World in 2020. Now, he earns over $25 million from his endorsement deals. His major endorsements include JBL, Tissot, 2K Sports, Hulu, and Nike.
<h2 class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: center"><strong>Giannis Antetokounmpo foundation and charity</strong></h2>
<p class="jsx-cb26a7af5694ead9" style="text-align: left"><span style="font-size: 16px">
In 2019, Giannis and his brothers started the AntetokounBros Academy. The academy aims to help young boys and girls jump-start their professional basketball careers. Moreover, the foundation, funded by Giannis' official sports apparel partner Nike, will run for two years in Athens.Â </span></p>

<h2><b>Giannis Antetokounmpoâ€™s social media accounts</b></h2>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Instagram</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.instagram.com/giannis_an34/"><b>https://www.instagram.com/giannis_an34/</b></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Twitter</span></td>
<td><a href="https://twitter.com/giannis_an34"><b>https://twitter.com/giannis_an34</b></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Facebook</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.facebook.com/GreekFreakOfficial/"><b>https://www.facebook.com/GreekFreakOfficial/</b></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Website</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">N/A</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Personal Information:</b></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Full Name</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Giannis Sina Ugo Antetokounmpo</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Popular Name</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Giannis Antetokounmpo</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Date of Birth</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">6th December, 1994</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Birth Place</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Athens, Greece</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Height</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">6 feet 11 inches</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Weight</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">243 lb</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Parents</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Charles Antetokounmpo (Father)</span><span style="font-weight: 400">Veronica Antetokounmpo (Mother)</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Siblings</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Francis Antetokounmpo</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Thanasis Antetokounmpo</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Kostas Antetokounmpo</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Alex Antetokounmpo</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Nationality</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Greek / Nigerian</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Ethnicity</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Nigerian</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Net Worth</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">$70 Million</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Salary</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">$45.6 Million</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Spouse</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Mariah Riddlesprigger (Fiancee)</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Relationship/Marital Status</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Engaged</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Children</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">3</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Profession</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Basketball Player</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Team</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Milwaukee Bucks</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Rings</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">1</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Giannis Antetokounmpo

Who is Giannis Antetokounmpo? Giannis Antetokounmpo or the &#8220;Greek Freak&#8221; is one of those names that have spurred the NBA circuit in recent times. Born in Greece to Nigerian parents, Antetokounmpo began playing basketball for the youth teams of Filathlitikos, eventually playing for their senior team. Following this, the power forward declared himself eligible for the NBA Draft in 2013, where Antetokounmpo was drafted with the 15th overall pick by the Milwaukee Bucks, a team he has been playing for since then. He wears the No. 34 jersey. Jan 3, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) in the second half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports Over his career, Antetokounmpo has been an NBA All-Star seven times. Giannis also won two successive MVP trophies in 2019 and 2020 to solidify his status as a star in the league. After multiple seasons of being heavily criticized for his failure to win a title, the power forward silenced his critics winning his first championship and Final MVP in 2021. In the 2023-24 season, he is continuing his top form, with the Bucks now a force to be reckoned with in the East. Giannis Antetokounmpo&#8217;s early life Born in Athens to Nigerian immigrant parents, Charles and Veronica Antetokounmpo, in 1994, Giannis Antetokounmpo grew up in a tough environment, with his family struggling to afford the basics. He started playing basketball around age 7, finding an escape and a passion for the sport. By his mid-teens, he had left school to focus on helping provide for his family, taking odd jobs around the city. Basketball became more than just a game for the young athlete â€“ it was, perhaps, an opening for a better life. That once far-off dream, however, was soon realized, with Antetokounmpo&#8217;s first-round selection in the 2013 NBA draft. Giannis Antetokounmpo&#8217;s wife and children Giannis Antetokounmpo fathers three children with his fiancee Mariah Riddlesprigger: his two sons Liam, 4, and Maverick Shai, 2, and his new-born daughter Eva Brooke. He has four brothers, Francis, Thanasis, Kostas, and Alex. Two of his siblings are contemporaries in the league, with Kostas securing a championship in 2020 with the Los Angeles Lakers and Thanasis with the Bucks in 2021. Giannis Antetokounmpo&#8217;s career timeline Drafted 15th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2013 NBA draft, Antetokounmpo was named to the NBA All-Rookie second team in his first season. Over the next few years, he quickly exceeded expectations, growing into a versatile scorer, lockdown defender, and facilitator all in an athletic 6â€™11â€ frame. He broke out in his third season, averaging 16.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game and earning the Most Improved Player award. In the 2019-20 season, the Greek had another one of his finer campaigns, putting up 27.7 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists to lead the Bucks to their best-ever record in the NBA. (56-17). In 2021, Giannis delivered on his promise by spearheading the Bucks to the NBA title and earning a Finals MVP title in the process. He then went on to sign one of the largest contracts in NBA history, a 5-year $228 million extension with the Bucks. Giannis Antetokoumpo&#8217;s major achievements NBA Champion (2021) NBA Finals MVP (2021) 2Ã— NBA Most Valuable Player (2019, 2020) 7Ã— NBA All-Star (2017â€“2023) NBA All-Star Game MVP (2021) 5Ã— All-NBA First Team (2019â€“2023) 2Ã— All-NBA Second Team (2017, 2018) NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2020) 4Ã— NBA All-Defensive First Team (2019â€“2022) NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2017) NBA Most Improved Player (2017) NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2014) NBA 75th Anniversary Team FIBA EuroBasket Top Scorer (2022) Euroscar Player of the Year (2018) Giannis Antetokounmpo stats Games played &#8211; 758 Points per game &#8211; 23.1 Assists per game &#8211; 4.8 Rebounds per game &#8211; 9.7 Playoffs stats: Games played &#8211; 79 Points per game &#8211; 26.6 Assists per game &#8211; 5.2 Rebounds per game &#8211; 12.0 Giannis Antetokounmpo&#8217;s 2024 net worthÂ  Giannis Antetokounmpo&#8217;s net worth in 2024 is estimated to be $70 million. In October, after much speculation, the Bucks and Giannis agreed on a massive super-max contract, which tied the &#8216;Greek Freak&#8217; with the Bucks for five more years. The deal is worth close to $228 million and the player is guaranteed the entire amount, including an opt-out in the fourth year. Notably, he currently averages a salary of approximately $45.64 million through his 10-year career in the NBA. Giannis Antetokounmpo contract Here is a breakdown of his contract extension with the Bucks:  2023/24 $45,640,084  2024/25 $48,787,676  2025/26 $57,604,894  2026/27 $62,213,285  2027/28 $66,821,676  Endorsement deals of Giannis Antetokounmpo The seven-time NBA All-Star was the 19th Highest-Paid Athlete in the World in 2020. Now, he earns over $25 million from his endorsement deals. His major endorsements include JBL, Tissot, 2K Sports, Hulu, and Nike. Giannis Antetokounmpo foundation and charity In 2019, Giannis and his brothers started the AntetokounBros Academy. The academy aims to help young boys and girls jump-start their professional basketball careers. Moreover, the foundation, funded by Giannis&#8217; official sports apparel partner Nike, will run for two years in Athens.Â  Giannis Antetokounmpoâ€™s social media accounts  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/giannis_an34/  Twitter https://twitter.com/giannis_an34  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GreekFreakOfficial/  Website N/A    Personal Information:  Full Name Giannis Sina Ugo Antetokounmpo  Popular Name Giannis Antetokounmpo  Date of Birth 6th December, 1994  Birth Place Athens, Greece  Height 6 feet 11 inches  Weight 243 lb  Parents Charles Antetokounmpo (Father)Veronica Antetokounmpo (Mother)  Siblings Francis Antetokounmpo Thanasis Antetokounmpo Kostas Antetokounmpo Alex Antetokounmpo  Nationality Greek / Nigerian  Ethnicity Nigerian  Net Worth $70 Million  Salary $45.6 Million  Spouse Mariah Riddlesprigger (Fiancee)  Relationship/Marital Status Engaged  Children 3  Profession Basketball Player  Team Milwaukee Bucks  Rings 1

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LeBron James

Who is LeBron James? LeBron James is widely considered to be one of the greatest to ever play the game of basketball. Born in Akron, James spent the majority of his professional career with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Los Angeles Lakers, winning multiple NBA championships and earning numerous accolades along the way. Dec 7, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts during the second quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA In Season Tournament Semifinal at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports &nbsp; Known for his exceptional all-around game, James is a four-time MVP and has been selected to the All-Star team a record 18 times. LeBron James&#8217; early life LeBron James was born on December 30, 1984, in Akron, Ohio. James started playing basketball at a young age, showing great potential. He soon became one of the best high school basketball players in the country. James graduated from St. Vincent&#8217;s St. Mary High School and declared for the NBA draft in 2003. James led St. Vincent&#8217;s St. Mary to three state championships in four years. With Keith Dambrot and Dru Joyce II coaching the side for two years each, the Fighting Irish had a record of 101 victories and 6 losses during James&#8217; time. LeBron James&#8217; wife and children LeBron James was raised by his mother Gloria James, who struggled to make ends meet as a single mother. Not much is known about James&#8217; biological father Anthony McClelland, who was largely absent from LeBron&#8217;s life during his childhood. He is also reported to have criminal records to his name. James has been in a relationship with his high school sweetheart Savannah since his teenage years. The couple tied the knot on September 14, 2013. Savannah James has indulged in several business ventures over the years and is also a noted philanthropist. She has also established a mentorship program for young women. LeBron and Savannah have three children together: Bronny, Bryce, and Zhuri James. Both Bronny and Bryce are following in their father&#8217;s footsteps to become basketball stars. In December 2023, Bronny made his long-awaited collegiate debut with the USC Trojans, less than five months after suffering cardiac arrest in July. LeBron James&#8217; net worth 2024 LeBron James has an estimated net worth of $1 billion, according to recent reports. James is the first active NBA star to achieve this feat. The four-time NBA champion signed a two-year $97.1 million contract extension with theÂ Los Angeles Lakers last year. As per reports, James has earned around $387 million in salaries in his 20-year NBA career so far. Furthermore, he has also made a fortune with his endorsement deals and investments, which have helped him build his massive business empire. LeBron James&#8217; NBA career timeline TheÂ Cleveland Cavaliers selected hometown boy LeBron James as the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA draft. James was a superstar straight out of high school and took the league by storm. He played for the Cavaliers from 2003 to 2010 in his first stint and won MVP awards in 2009 and 2010. Even though the Akron Hammer was almost unstoppable on the court and won many individual accolades, team success was hard to come by. Bilder des Tages &#8211; SPORT NBA Playoffs, Cleveland Cavaliers &#8211; Indiana Pacers April 25, 2018 &#8211; Cleveland, OH, USA &#8211; The Cleveland Cavaliers LeBron James celebrates a basket and foul in the third quarter against the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 on Wednesday, April 25, 2018, at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland. The Cleveland Cavaliers won, 98-95, for a 3-2 lead in the first-round NBA Basketball Herren USA playoff series. Game 5: Indiana at Cleveland &#8211; ZUMAm67_ 20180425_zaf_m67_043 Copyright: xLeahxKlafczynskix James then left the Cavs and took his talents to theÂ Miami Heat in 2010. He received major backlash from Cavs fans after this move. However, he continued his dominance, alongside superstars Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh for the Heat, and clinched his first NBA title in 2012, followed by another in 2013. He also won the NBA MVP award and the Finals MVP award in 2012 and 2013. The estranged son then returned to the Cavaliers in 2014 and took the team to four straight NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors. He helped the Cavs win their first-ever NBA title in 2016. James once again left the Cavs, this time to join the Los Angeles Lakers, in 2018 and led them to the 2020 NBA title.Â  Following the retirements of Udonis Haslem and Andre Iguodala, LeBron James is currently the oldest player in the league. On the 21st of November 2023, James became the first player in league history to reach 39,000 career points. Six days later, he surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar&#8217;s record of 66,300 minutes to become the player with the most minutes played in NBA games during the regular season and playoffs. LeBron James contracts Here&#8217;s a breakdown of LeBron James&#8217; contracts and earnings throughout his NBA career:  Year Team Salary    2023-24 Los Angeles Lakers $47,607,350  2022-23 Los Angeles Lakers $44,474,988  2021-22 Los Angeles Lakers $41,180,544  2020-21 Los Angeles Lakers $39,219,566  2019/20 Los Angeles Lakers $37,436,858 ($37,678,600*)  2018/19 Los Angeles Lakers $35,654,150 ($36,475,929*)  2017/18 Cleveland Cavaliers $33,285,709 ($35,030,744*)  2016/17 Cleveland Cavaliers $30,963,450 ($33,119,038*)  2015/16 Cleveland Cavaliers $22,970,500 ($24,814,681*)  2014/15 Cleveland Cavaliers $20,644,400 ($22,329,434*)  2013/14 Miami Heat $19,067,500 ($21,051,220*)  2012/13 Miami Heat $17,545,000 ($19,710,161*)  2011/12 Miami Heat $16,022,500 ($18,299,290*)  2010/11 Miami Heat $14,500,000 ($17,149,801*)  2009/10 Cleveland Cavaliers $15,779,912 ($18,860,203*)  2008/09 Cleveland Cavaliers $14,410,581 ($16,977,833*)  2007/08 Cleveland Cavaliers $13,041,250 ($16,136,130*)  2006/07 Cleveland Cavaliers $5,828,090 ($7,404,948*)  2005/06 Cleveland Cavaliers $4,621,800 ($6,125,892*)  2004/05 Cleveland Cavaliers $4,320,360 ($5,871,248*)  2003/04 Cleveland Cavaliers $4,018,920 ($5,639,986*)   &nbsp; LeBron James&#8217; NBA career stats Regular season games played &#8211; 1467 Regular season points per game &#8211; 27.1 Regular season rebounds per game &#8211; 7.5 Regular season assists per game &#8211; 7.3 Playoff games played &#8211; 282 Postseason points per game &#8211; 28.5 Postseason rebounds per game &#8211; 9 Postseason assists per game &#8211; 7.2 LeBron James&#8217; investments and endorsements Some of the biggest brands endorsed by LeBron James are as follows: Nike McDonald&#8217;s Blaze Pizza Beats Electronics Sprite Upper Deck State Farm Insurance Audemars Piguet Dunkin&#8217; Donuts Samsung Kia Verizon Intel Lobos 1707 LeBron James has made some very smart investments over the years, which have helped him substantially. Two of James&#8217; most important investments are Blaze Pizza and the English soccer club, Liverpool F.C. LeBron James&#8217; achievements and awards 4Ã— NBA champion (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020) 4Ã— NBA Finals MVP (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020) 4Ã— NBA Most Valuable Player (2009, 2010, 2012, 2013) 19Ã— NBA All-Star (2005â€“2023) 3Ã— NBA All-Star Game MVP (2006, 2008, 2018) 13Ã— All-NBA First Team (2006, 2008â€“2018, 2020) 3Ã— All-NBA Second Team (2005, 2007, 2021) 3Ã— All-NBA Third Team (2019, 2022, 2023) 5Ã— NBA All-Defensive First Team (2009â€“2013) NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2014) NBA Rookie of the Year (2004) NBA All-Rookie First Team (2004) NBA scoring champion (2008) NBA assists leader (2020) NBA 75th Anniversary Team AP Athlete of the Decade (the 2010s) 4Ã— AP Athlete of the Year (2013, 2016, 2018, 2020) 3Ã— Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year (2012, 2016, 2020) USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2012) 2Ã— National high school player of the year (2002, 2003) McDonald&#8217;s All-American Game MVP (2003) 2Ã— First-team Parade All-American (2002, 2003) 3Ã— Ohio Mr. Basketball (2001â€“2003) 3x USA Today All-USA First Team (2001-2003) No. 23 retired by St. Vincentâ€“St. Mary LeBron James&#8217; charity and foundation Some of the biggest donations made by LeBron James are to the charities: After-school All-Stars Mohammed Ali: A Force for Change Boys and Girls Club of America Children&#8217;s Defence Fund ONEXONE I Promise School Most of these charities are aimed at helping children and the younger generation. King James is dedicated to providing the youth of America, especially those at risk, the opportunity required to prosper in life with his &#8216;I Promise&#8217; initiative. LeBron James&#8217; rings Over his illustrious 20-year career (and counting), James has won four NBA championships. He has led three different franchises &#8211; the Miami Heat, the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Los Angeles Lakers &#8211; to NBA titles. James&#8217; first title came in 2012 with the Heat, when he won his first Finals MVP award, followed by a second consecutive title in 2013. After returning to Cleveland in 2014, James delivered on his promise to bring the city its first major sports championship in over 50 years. In 2016, James powered the Cavaliers back from a daunting 3-1 deficit against the record-setting Golden State Warriors in the Finals. James won his 4th championship and NBA Finals MVP award in 2020, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a championship against his former side, the Miami Heat. LeBron James&#8217; shoe deals LeBron James signed a huge deal with Nike even before he entered the NBA. As James&#8217; superstardom rose, he became one of the most important faces of the brand, with his line of signature shoes, which is in its 20th version now. The four-time NBA MVP signed a lifetime deal with Nike in 2015 for an undisclosed fee. LeBron James&#8217; house LeBron James has reiterated multiple times that he does not spend his hard-earned money without reason. Former teammate Dwyane Wade once revealed that James is one of the cheapest players in the league despite being one of the richest. However, James knows how to spend his fortune in style. And when it comes to where he lives, the King does not compromise. According to reports, LeBron owns multiple properties in California, Ohio, and Miami, that are worth a combined estimated value of $100 million. LeBron James&#8217; car collection LeBron James is known for having an extensive collection of cars, estimated to be worth over $2 million. Some of the standouts include a Chevy Camaro SS, a 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder, and the Dodge Challenger SRT 392. He also owns a Lamborghini Aventador Roadster, a 720-horsepower V12 supercar. Another notable element of his collection is a Mercedes luxury sedan, the Maybach S650, worth around $200,000. Notably, after teaming up with Shaquille O&#8217;Neal in Cleveland, Shaq gifted LeBron a Rolls Royce Phantom for his 25th birthday. The luxury car goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds and is valued at around $505,000. LeBron James&#8217; controversial moments LeBron James has not had any major controversies so far. However, there have been a few questionable moments in his career. James was the centerpiece of controversy during his high school career for accepting gifts. Then his infamous move to the Miami Heat in 2010, announced on national television, stirred up a lot of controversy. James, who is very vocal about his political beliefs, was criticized for his association with Nike because of the brand&#8217;s political stance. Also, his comments on America after Brittney Griner&#8217;s detainment in Russia sparked some controversy. Will LeBron James retire? LeBron James, 39, is currently playing his 21st NBA season in the NBA. The future Hall of Famer is still playing at the highest level, but he is definitely at the tail end of his career. However, the Lakers icon will not retire after the 2023-24 season as he has multiple times opened up about his desire to play alongside his son Bronny James in the league. Bronny will be eligible to declare for the NBA draft next year. So there is a high chance that James may continue playing in the league until his son enters the NBA. LeBron James&#8217; social media accounts  Instagram @kingjames  Twitter @KingJames  Facebook @LeBron James  Website https://www.lebronjames.com/  &nbsp;  Full Name LeBron Raymone James Sr.  Popular Name LeBron James  Birth Date December 30, 1984  Birth Place Akron, Ohio  Height 6&#8242; 9&#8243; (2.06 m)  Weight 250 lbs  Parents Gloria James  Siblings None  Nationality American  Ethnicity African American  Net Worth $1 Billion  Salary $97.1 Million  Spouse Savannah James  Relationship/Marital Status Married  Children Three  Profession Basketball player  Team Los Angeles Lakers

Lakers Legend Magic Johnson Picks His NBA MVP Candidate

LeBron James was incredible this season

Magic Johnson is impressed with how LeBron is leading the Lakers