In a recent political speech, former U.S. President and current candidate Donald Trump referenced Greek NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo, who responded with a measured statement.
On Friday, at a campaign rally at Fiserv Forum, home of the Milwaukee Bucks, Trump made a series of racially charged remarks targeting Antetokounmpo, prompting the Bucks’ leader to issue a restrained response.
“I haven’t heard his statements. I don’t follow politics much, and with the little I do see, I try to keep my opinions to myself and my family. I’m here to play basketball and answer basketball questions. I wish both candidates good luck,” said Antetokounmpo.
Trump’s racist Comment: “Who’s more Greek? Him or me?”
Speaking at the Fiserv Forum—a venue that hosted last year’s Republican National Convention—Trump praised his previous event at Madison Square Garden in New York, where several speakers, including comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, made racially insensitive comments, with Hinchcliffe calling Puerto Rico a “garbage island.”
Continuing in this vein, Trump turned his attention to the Bucks’ arena, making comments about Antetokounmpo and selectively overlooking the player’s background.
“Your team is very good. I’d say the Greek guy is a really good player. Would you agree? Now, tell me, who’s more Greek? Him or me? I’d say we’re the same, right?” Trump remarked, appearing either oblivious or dismissive of Antetokounmpo’s Greek roots.
Born in Greece to Nigerian parents, Antetokounmpo is a Greek citizen, speaks Greek fluently, and plays for the Greek national team.
Trump did, however, praise the player’s skill, saying, “He’s a great player, maybe the best in the NBA. They say he’s a really good kid too. But with your help, we’ll beat Kamala Harris and make America great again”.
