By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Not only Luka Doncic and Victor Wembanyama spoke as European leaders of their respective squads in today’s NBA Media Day. Giannis Antetokounmpo took the mic too, answering questions from media in Milwaukee.
Before approaching the 2024-25 season, he had one last moment to recall the Olympic run with the Greek national team. “It was one of the best experiences I had as a basketball player: that and the [2021 NBA] Championship. It was one of the most amazing experiences being in Paris, going through the opening ceremony as the flag bearer for my country”, he first said.
The Milwaukee Bucks‘ superstar and two-time MVP crossed his fingers about another future participation in the Olympics. “Paris was the most diverse place on Earth at that moment. I hope I’ll be able to participate again. One of the best experiences I’ve ever had, win or lose”, he added.
Giannis also commented on his health condition during the tournament and asked if he played hurt or not after not making it to the NBA Playoffs with Milwaukee in 2023-24. “I don’t know if I was playing hurt. But I was a little bit banged up. I’m always banged up”, he said.
Talking about his injury status last year, he followed. “I’ll take care of my body the best that I can. There’s going to be moments that are going to be unfortunate. I wasn’t expecting on April 9th to get hurt and injure my calf. There’s going to be moments like that, things that you don’t expect. But you’ve just got to be ready the best that you can, take care of your body and try different things”, he said.
“That’s what I did this offseason. At the end of the day, I have to realize it’s very important to stay healthy because it gives you a chance to be good, help your team, and win something. When you’re not available, the chance goes down to zero. I don’t want to talk too much. Just taking care of my body the best that I can. I hope I’m not unfortunate moving forward”, Antetokounmpo added.
PHOTO CREDIT: FIBA