Why is Giannis Antetokounmpo nicknamed the “Greek Freak”? Know about the true reason behind the name

Giannis Antetokounmpo has quickly become one of the most recognizable names in basketball. His unique combination of size, athleticism, and skill have made him a force to be reckoned with on the court, and have earned him the nickname of “The Greek Freak”. But why is he given this nickname? We will explore the reasons why Giannis Antetokounmpo is nicknamed the “Greek Freak”.

Literally and figuratively, Giannis Antetokounmpo is a freak of nature on the court with a constant attack-mode mentality. Also plays like the block on DeAndre Ayton in the finals, or jumping over Tim Hardaway Jr., to catch a lob can only be done by someone who is, well, a freak. It’s not a possibility for mere mortals.

Giannis himself does not know the exact origins of the nickname. According to him, once he had a ‘‘crazy dunk’ early in his career. The dunk was so impressive that some people started calling him the Greek Freak. Eventually, with enough time, the nickname just stuck with Giannis. Honestly speaking, whoever came up with the nickname should’ve registered a trademark on it considering its Antetokounmpo’s entire branding at this point.

Giannis himself has naturally been asked about the nickname many a time. Despite the fact that his shoes, his clothing line, and his entire Nike subsection are based around the Greek Freak branding, it’s unclear whether Giannis really loves the name.

Related: Where does Giannis Antetokounmpo live?

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s own opinions on the Greek Freak nickname

Giannis Antetokounmpo was born in Athens, Greece, to Nigerian immigrants. Due to the Jus Sanguinis law, he was stateless until 2013. The origin of his famous nickname “the Greek Freak” seems to invoke mixed feelings for him. In an interview, he said, “It doesn’t bother me, but people don’t call me the Nigerian Freak, you know, they only call me the Greek Freak. You know this is a time for people to understand that I’m both, I’m not just Greek, I’m Nigerian.” Now, Giannis holds dual citizenship with Greece and Nigeria.

It is a very fitting nickname for sure though. Antetokounmpo is one of the most physically gifted players in the entire NBA. His freakish combo of size, speed, and explosiveness is why he has been referred to as a “freak” since entering the league. Standing at 6’11” tall, Giannis is one of the highest leapers in the entire league, making him an incredibly difficult matchup for defenders.

Prime Dwight Howard was the last 7 footer with the kind of hops Giannis does. However, Giannis is more mobile than Howard ever was, possessing the agility of a wing player and the speed of a guard. His combination of size, speed, strength, and athleticism make him truly “freakish” on the basketball court. Giannis is one of the best basketball players in the world, and his physical gifts are a major reason why.

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