Giannis Antetokounmpo: Winning Feels Better Than Intimacy
Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo is having another incredible season, arguably surpassing the numbers he posted during his two MVP-winning campaigns. The Greek Freak continues to dominate on both ends of the floor, proving once again why he is one of the most unstoppable forces in the NBA.
However, while his individual brilliance is undeniable, team success hasn’t been as consistent this season compared to other MVP frontrunners like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets. Despite that, Antetokounmpo remains firmly in the conversation for the league’s most prestigious individual award.
At 30 years old, Antetokounmpo has already accomplished so much in his career, but his passion for winning remains unmatched. His competitive drive is what fuels him every single night, and for him, there is nothing more satisfying than the feeling of victory.
In a recent interview with The Athletic’s Sam Amick, Antetokounmpo expressed just how much winning means to him, even comparing it to the most intimate moments in life.
“Listen, the MVP discussion is great. I’ve been in the MVP discussion, what, like the last seven years? Yeah, probably the last seven years — top three, top four, top three, top four. It’s good. It’s a great compliment. But at the end of the day, winning is a different feeling. I was able to live it once (with the 2021 title) … Winning is winning, so is the NBA Cup. It was like, wow, this feeling, man, it’s like—it’s better than intimacy (laughs).”
This statement perfectly encapsulates who Antetokounmpo is at his core: a winner. While MVP accolades are nice, his ultimate goal is to once again hoist the Larry O’Brien trophy. He understands that individual success means little without team success, and that is what separates him from so many other superstars.
This season, Antetokounmpo is putting up monstrous numbers, averaging 30.2 points, 12.0 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game while shooting 60.0% from the field in 34 minutes over 59 games. Yet, for him, the stats and individual honors are secondary to the pursuit of another championship.
When asked who he believes deserves to win MVP this season, his answer was both surprising and heartfelt.
“My wife,” Antetokounmpo responded, showing that while basketball is his passion, family remains just as important to him.
With Antetokounmpo leading the way, the Bucks may not be the favorites, but they certainly have a chance. And if there’s one thing history has taught us, it’s to never count out Giannis when there’s a title on the line.
