Being named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) is a huge honour, and that is not lost on Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was visibly emotional during his acceptance speech.
However despite the win and his ever-growing status in the United States, the ‘Greek Freak’ hasn’t forgotten his roots.
In a recent interview the Milwaukee Bucks forward said that he would be willing to give up his MVP win for Greece to win gold at the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup in China, proving that his love for his birth country is as strong as ever.
“I would exchange the MVP title for the gold medal in China,” Antetokounmpo said.
Kicking off on 31 August, Antetokounmpo will be the highest profile player competing, as well as the first MVP to ever compete.
It will be a familiar affair at the World Cup, with Giannis joined by his two brothers, Thanasis and Kostas on the national team.
WATCH: A tearful Giannis Antetokounmpo named NBA’s Most Valuable Player