Most-trolled Thanasis Antetokounmpos impact on Milwaukee Bucks championship run revealed by Jeff

Publish date: 2024-07-17

Jeff Teague recently shared a fascinating insight into the Milwaukee Bucks’ championship run on The Draymond Green Show. According to Teague, Thanasis Antetokounmpo, Giannis’ brother, played a crucial role in the team’s success.

When the Bucks went down 0-2 in the 2021 NBA championship series against the Phoenix Suns, Thanasis was unable to join the team due to COVID-19. Giannis was deeply affected by his brother’s absence, and his performance suffered as a result. Giannis and Thanasis have a unique bond, and Giannis relies on his brother’s presence to function at his best.

They got some different kind of connection, he can’t function or play if he don’t see his brother. Then when we see him… They started hooping, but his energy was like contagious, he running in the locker room, COVID, with everything he’s got, yelling, screaming. I’m like yeah he matters, like he makes a difference for our team, when he’s not here something is not clicking, but when TA (Thanasis) was there he made it, like he mattered.

Jeff Teague on the Draymond Green Show

Thanasis’ recovery from COVID-19 and return to the team was a turning point in their championship run. His energy was contagious, and he brought a spark to the locker room that inspired his teammates. Teague credited Thanasis with making a significant difference in the team’s performance.

Teague’s account highlights the often-overlooked contribution of Thanasis Antetokounmpo to the Bucks’ championship win. Despite being a lesser-known player, Thanasis’ presence and energy had a profound impact on his teammates, particularly his brother Giannis.

Thanasis Antetokounmpo shrugs off nepotism criticism, and focuses on proving himself in the NBA

The debate about nepotism in the NBA continues, with the recent drafting of Bronny James by the Los Angeles Lakers sparking conversation. Giannis Antetokounmpo’s brothers, including Thanasis, have also faced criticism for their perceived privileged access to the league. However, Thanasis remains unfazed, viewing the criticism as a compliment and a testament to his hard work and positive locker-room presence.

That's a compliment because that means I'm a good person. Nobody gives you nothing if they don't like you first of all. You gotta bring something to the table. I actually like Charles Barkley and Shaq. They just have fun and joke. The thing is, some kids believe that.
Thanasis on The Bootleg Kev Podcast

Thanasis has earned his spot in the NBA through dedication and perseverance, playing in Greece and the NBA D-League before joining the New York Knicks in 2016. While he may not be as skilled as his brother Giannis, he brings a unique energy and work ethic to the court. Despite criticism from Charles Barkley and others, Thanasis remains focused on making the most of his opportunity.

ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski pointed out that nepotism is rampant in the NBA, with owners, front offices, and coaches often benefiting from family connections. He argued that Bronny and Thanasis don’t deserve the backlash, and it’s up to them to prove themselves in the league. If they succeed, the conversation around nepotism will become irrelevant.

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