NBA News NBA News, Match Reports and Updates
Giannis Antetokounmpo participated in his first interview with a non-sports media outlet in Greece, reiterating his dream of concluding his career in his home country.
During his appearance on “2night show,” a Greek version of U.S. late-night programs, Giannis was once again quite explicit about his aspirations for the end of his professional journey.
He stated, “I’m currently 30 years old and can continue playing in the NBA until I’m around 36 to 38. It would be my wish to finish my career with a Greek team—why not? I don’t intend to live in America long-term. Once I step away from the NBA, my goal is to return to Greece. I could retire here, whether it’s with Filathlitikos, Olympiacos, Panathinaikos, Aris, or any other team.”
Giannis also shared his intention to raise his family in Greece, clarifying that recent reports about his wife and children relocating to Athens were inaccurate. He spoke fondly of his family, including his wife, Mariah.
He mentioned how his mother’s approval of Mariah played a crucial role in their marriage, stating, “Mariah was my first girlfriend and I chose to marry her. Had my mother expressed, ‘Giannis, this isn’t the right girl for you,’ I would have shown her the door.”
“She is the love of my life,” he added while discussing Mariah. “She has given me my children—truly the most precious gift. I’m content with four kids; if it’s in God’s plan, we might even have a fifth.”
The Greek superstar also shared that initially, Mariah was hesitant about his advances. Nevertheless, he persisted.
“In 2015, I had a friend reach out to her, but she turned me down. I tried again in 2016, presenting myself as a good friend. A year later, she sent me a message and we started talking,” Giannis reminisced.
