During his 12 years in the NBA, Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks has done just about everything, including winning a championship and being named an MVP twice.
But Antetokounmpo just did something novel and really special, winning the bronze medal for Team Greece in the EuroBasket tournament.
Following that accomplishment, Antetokounmpo talked about what it means to bring home a medal for his country.
“When you win the MVP, my mom is happy, my brother is happy, my agent might be happy. It is what it is. But when you win the medal, 12–13 million people are happy. I’ve never given that feeling before,” Antetokounmpo said.
Giannis Antetokounmpo after winning bronze with Greece:
“When you win the MVP, my mom is happy, my brother is happy, my agent might be happy. It is what it is. But when you win the medal, 12–13 million people are happy. I’ve never given that feeling before.”
(h/t @hoopshype) pic.twitter.com/8Y46Reby2e
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) September 14, 2025
Antetokounmpo and his team weren’t able to claim gold, but the people of Greece are really proud of everything they accomplished during the very competitive and tough EuroBasket tournament.
As expected, Antetokounmpo was a huge part of his team’s success, and this was just the sort of morale boost he needed before the 2025-26 season kicks off next month.
It’s no secret that Antetokounmpo has high hopes for his Bucks.
He wants them to go all the way to the NBA Finals, and there could be severe repercussions if they don’t.
Antetokounmpo has been patient with his team’s front office and waiting for them to make the right adjustments.
If the Bucks don’t get close to claiming another title in the new season, the rumors about Antetokounmpo leaving will grow louder than ever before.
Milwaukee wants Antetokounmpo to be in a good mood, and he is, at least for right now.
But that mood can sour in the months ahead if the Bucks don’t deliver.
NEXT: EuroBasket Coach Gets Honest About Stopping Giannis Antetokounmpo
