Giannis Antetokounmpo is a family man. They are four brothers and all of them share a very tight bond. The siblings share a healthy relationship, with all due credit to great parenting.
Veronica and Charles Antetokounmpo raised a pack of NBA players. They come from a very humble background and it must not have crossed their mind that one of their sons will go on to become an NBA MVP. Today, we are going down memory lane with Giannis, as he remembers his late father.
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Giannis Antetokounmpo pays tribute to his father
Mr. Charles sadly passed away at 54 in 2017. Coincidentally, that was the same year when Giannis won his MVP award. His father always taught all his sons about the strength in sharing, allowing no selfishness in his home.
On his late father’s birthday, Giannis posted a video on Twitter that showcased every precious moment from his 25-year life with his beloved family. In the video, he shares a quote that defines the kind of emotions he carries for his family. The quote said, “It’s all about family with me. It’s not just my shoe, it’s my family’s shoe.” He wrote with the post, “I know you are in Heaven proud and smiling down. Happy Birthday Daddy.”
I know you are in Heaven proud and smiling down! 🙏🏽❤️ Happy Birthday Daddy. pic.twitter.com/74kzk2ckMG
— Giannis Ugo Antetokounmpo (@Giannis_An34) August 3, 2020
The post so beautifully details every important moment that came into his life. From his childhood, to the times when his father used to be in the spectators to watch him play. From his mother’s omnipresence, to when his girlfriend Mariah Danae Riddlesprigger gave birth to his first baby.
Some defining moments that shaped this family and bought them so close
Giannis’ respect for his father can be seen from the fact that he named his baby Liam ‘Charles’ Antetokounmpo. That middle name alone speaks volumes.
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According to the documentaries, in part shot by Nike, The Antetokounmpos used to sell stuff on the streets to make a living. It was very tough for them to put food on the table. His father would sleep on an empty stomach but never let his kids bear that pain of poverty. Obviously that is why a young Giannis said “When I was practicing, I was thinking about my dad and my mom.”
We can not understand the void that Giannis and his family must feel today, but we can surely cheer for him when his team next plays against the Brooklyn Nets. You go, Greek Freak!
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Sources: Nike, Giannis Ugo Antetokounmpo – Twitter
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