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Giannis Antetokounmpo has made his way back to Milwaukee from Greece, having checked off nearly every ambition he harbored as a basketball player.
The solitary missing piece was a medal—any medal, even bronze—with the Greek national team, and he has now secured that as well.
However, this achievement doesn’t satisfy his thirst for more. Giannis shared his perspective on the upcoming season and his remaining years in the league: “I believe every basketball player and athlete embarks on a journey at the start of their career, driven by what they aspire to achieve and how they wish to be remembered. At this point, I feel I’ve reached every goal I set for myself, but my desire for further success remains. I aim to win another championship and earn another medal for my country, as my legacy holds immense significance for me.”
As the first Greek player to clinch an NBA championship, Giannis is a certain Hall of Famer when he eventually retires; yet he aspires for an even more prominent place in basketball history.
He articulated his thoughts: “What will define how I’m remembered? How can I secure my place among the all-time greats? It’s a gradual process—step by step, practice after practice, game by game, season by season. Consistently stacking up the days is key. You need to remain reliable and present. Good results will come, but you must play with the intention of winning. I’m not here just to be a presence or collect a paycheck. I’m truly fortunate; I provide for my family and could live a simple life. But my motivation is to win and achieve greatness on the court.”
This mindset also encompasses his initiative to take care of his physical health and prolong his career until he eventually “vanishes” on a Greek island.
Giannis acknowledged that, as a 30-year-old athlete, this consideration is crucial: “It’s important to meet with your doctors and physiotherapists at least quarterly to discuss your physical goals and strategies for maintaining your health. What do you want to achieve each season? Athletes are getting wiser about body care, which is why many are extending their careers. I want to follow that path too. This is my 13th year in the league. By the time I’m 36, I believe I’ll still be performing at a high level because I prioritize my health. That would be my 19th year in the NBA. After that, we’ll see how long I can continue. If I can keep going, I will; if not, I’ll find solace on a Greek island.”
