Iman Shumpert Says Giannis Antetokounmpo is the ‘Heartbeat of the Game’ Today

Giannis Antetokounmpo has been one of the best players in the NBA for quite some time now. The Greek Freak has been exceptional over the course of his 13-year career. Even establishing himself as the face of the league in the eyes of many.

With an NBA Championship, two MVPs, and a Defensive Player of the Year award to his name, it isn’t that surprising. But, what exactly is it that makes him so brilliant? Well, many believe that it comes down to his style of play.

A 6’11” big man, who handles the ball like a point guard, drives like a wing player, and rebounds and defends like a center. Some would say he is the total package, and Iman Shumpert is one of them. The former NBA superstar even referred to Antetokounmpo as the “Heartbeat of the Game”.

Iman Shumpert believes the NBA has found its “heartbeat” in Giannis Antetokounmpo

Over the years, the NBA has always had a set “face of the league”. In the 70s, that role belonged to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, in the 80s it was shared between Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, in the 90s Michael Jordan, and in the 2000s both Kobe Bryant and LeBron James make waves.

Well, now the league is looking for its new “face”. With LeBron entering the tail end of his career, the NBA has actively begun its search. The media has thrown around a couple of names. Nikola Jokic, Joel Embiid, Luka Doncic, Ja Morant, and Zion Williamson are frequently mentioned.

However, the player with the best case is without a doubt, Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Greek Freak is a modern marvel, and according to Iman Shumpert, he is the “Heartbeat of the Game”.

“I’m big on the “Heartbeat of the Game”. With how Giannis plays…coaches will tell you, “Good things happen when we get to the lane. Good things are just gonna happen. If you guys keep penetrating, good things are gonna happen!”. They tell that to all guards. That’s a center! penetrating! Good things are gonna happen for me, at 6’3″/6’4″. Then I can grow…I’m 6’5″ and now I’m the two. Then you get a 6’8″ mod that get(s) in there. Nah bro, dude is 6’11″…long a** arms and he getting in there!”

Antetokounmpo certainly is one of the best the league has to offer. But, while everyone is insistent on him taking up the mantle of the NBA’s “poster boy”, Giannis himself has no interest.

Giannis has stated on several occasions that he does not want to be the “face” of the NBA

It’s clear to see that the fans, the media, and the league as a whole would like to crown Giannis Antetokounmpo as its new leader. But, the Greek Freak has little to no interest in the same. He even went on record saying there is no way he can be the “face” of the NBA. Not while players like LeBron James, Steph Curry, and others are still around.

A truly humble outlook from the 2021 NBA Champion. But, one that makes him even more likable and even more perfect a candidate to take up the role.