Biography
Few stories embody the American dream as profoundly as the rise of Giannis Antetokounmpo, who went from the streets of Athens to the NBA courts, becoming an iconic symbol of perseverance and success.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s early years and rise to NBA
Born on December 6, 1994, in Athens to Nigerian immigrants Charles and Veronica Antetokounmpo, Giannis grew up in poverty alongside his four brothers. The family faced financial hardship, and the young Antetokounmpo and his siblings had to contribute to the family's income.
"I was selling stuff probably since I could remember, like 6 or 7 years old. I was always out there helping my mom and dad sell watches, glasses, CDs, DVDs, stuff like that. Whatever we could put our hands on. I did it until I was around 17. But I was just doing it because I had to. There was no other option. If we didn't sell that night, we wouldn't have food. Or if we sold, we'd have to think if we're going to pay the rent or buy some food," Giannis recalled in a 2018 ESPN interview.
Featured
Giannis ANTETOKOUNMPO
Replays
Olympic Results
Athlete Olympic Results Content
You may like