A skinny Giannis Antetokounmpo, during his initial years in the league once called out prodigious scorer, Carmelo Anthony.
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Giannis Antetekounmpo and his rise to fame are directly accredited to the ‘Never back down’ mentality that he proudly wears on his sleeve.
So, when the 10-time NBA All-Star Carmelo Anthony once decided to chirp at Antetokounmpo’s teammates, the ‘Greek Freak’ quickly decided enough is enough.
Antetekounmpo chose to ‘call out’ Anthony. Furthermore, the ‘Greek Freak’ switched on to guard him, when the New York Knicks were on offense. And that was the moment of his beckoning.
The hunger and desire in Antetokounmpo’s eyes were transparent. He was not going to be pushed over, no matter the outcome.
“I don’t know, I respect him, and he’s one of the best players. But he can come out insulting, bullying my teammates and me, talk to me all the time, saying stuff, so I try to not react but, you’ve to respect him, but if he do it all night, you can’t focus on your game, so you have to respond, and tell him something to stop.”
The result: Who emerged victorious?
Granted the fixture transpired in 2014, when Antetokounmpo was in his formative years, while ‘Melo’ was at the pinnacle of his career. But that didn’t bother the Bucks star. The now 27-year-old made the first start of his career that night, guarding Anthony.
Was that a sign?
Predictably, the New York Knicks and Melo stood tall, albeit in double overtime. The former Nuggets sensation went on to record a stat line of 29 points, along with 9 rebounds and 5 assists. A Vintage ‘Melo’ showing.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s career ambit so far
Irrefutably, Antetokounmpo’s upsurge has been a revelation. It’s an attestation to the heights an individual can attain provided he works hard, is dedicated, and wishes to fulfill his potential.
