By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
Giannis Antetokounmpo made one more step towards greatness by winning the NBA All-Star Game MVP award leading Team LeBron to the 170-150 win over Team Durant with a record-book-worthy performance.
According to Stat Muse, Giannis is the first player in NBA history to shoot 100% on 10+ attempts in the All-Star game. To be exact he scored 35 points on 16/16 FG, including three made threes.
The Greek Freak was already the leading scorer per average in the All-Star Game history with 27,2 points per game, however, he managed to improve this number while giving a dazzling offensive show in just 19 minutes of action. He also had seven rebounds and three assists.
“Usually the bank is closed on Sundays, but for me, it was open with extended hours”, said Giannis about his performance, and when asked about what he will remember from this game he added: “Definitely my son. It was the first time that he watched me play on an All-Star Game, this is for him and it’s just fun to have the family around”.
Giannis become the first European to win the award, but what touched him, even more, was to hold a trophy which is named after the late great Kobe Bryant: “Having an award named after Kobe Bryant in my house is a great feeling…I know he would be happy. Fear and fun cannot go together. And this year I’m choosing fun.”
Damian Lillard with 32 points and Steph Curry with 28 also had an impressive performance, making eight three-pointers each.
Kyrie Irving tried his best with 24 points and 12 assists for the losing side, however, Team Durant was already missing two main stars, injured Kevin Durant and also Joel Embiid due to COVID-19 health and safety protocols.
Photo credit: GettyImages