As the best power forward in the league and the most dominant two-way player in the game, Giannis Antetokounmpo has made his mark in the NBA. With back-to-back MVPs, a DPOY award, an NBA championship, and a Finals MVP already on his resume, Giannis is still just scratching the surface. In light of his most recent accomplishments, it brings up strong comparisons to a fellow member of the NBA 75 team.

Tim Duncan aka “The Big Fundamental” is widely considered the best power forward in NBA history. His sound and simple approach to the game earned him five NBA titles, two league MVPs, three Finals MVPs, and 15 All-Star selections. Duncan is also the only player ever to be named to the All-NBA and All-Defensive teams for 13 straight seasons.

“The Greek Freak” is on pace to be a first-ballot Hall-Of-Famer and his electric play on both ends of the court will be a further testament to his greatness. Granted Giannis' style of play differs greatly from that of Duncan, but his veteran leadership and high-IQ playmaking have drawn comparisons to the all-time great. So without further ado, let's discuss three ways Giannis Antetokounmpo will be this generation's Tim Duncan.

3 ways Giannis Antetokounmpo is the next-gen Tim Duncan

1. Giannis Antetokounmpo is a small market superstar just like Tim Duncan was 

A few summers back, Giannis had the opportunity to join the Miami Heat or Golden State Warriors and form a super team in a big market. Luckily, he passed on signing with both teams and committed to the Milwaukee Bucks long-term. Despite a disappointing and premature end to their season, Giannis dedicated the entire offseason to improving and expanding his game.

After leading the Bucks to their first NBA championship last season, it's become quite clear that Giannis is beginning to cement his legacy in basketball lore. This was a similar feat to that of Duncan, who played the entirety of his 19-year career with the San Antonio Spurs. He had options to play elsewhere throughout his illustrious playing days, but ultimately chose to stay with the Spurs. A place where he helped bring in five titles while setting a new standard for winning.

Even though San Antonio was never a free agent hotspot or one of the more desirable cities in the league, Duncan was always a known quantity throughout the NBA. The same can be said for Giannis, who's one of the most recognizable faces in the sport playing in a smaller market. However, he delivers for his team when it matters most and will continue to do so. Which is also a strong similarity he shares with Duncan who always won at the highest level.

 

2. The Greek Freak is a well-respected leader and great teammate in a way that closely mimics The Big Fundamental 

If one things been true in the Bucks' recent run of success, it's that Giannis is the motor that makes this team go. He definitely has a much stronger team around him, but his new-and-improved game has made him merely unstoppable. Aside from this, Giannis' leadership and high motor are what enables him to get the most out of his teammates. He may not be the most vocal leader, but his skills and experience allow him to lead by example and be a selfless teammate in the process.

This closely mimics Duncan who was a quiet guy but could still show his squad the way. As a result of his stellar play, he became a well-rounded superstar who was revered by the group of guys he played alongside for so many years. Giannis has already won over the respect of his crew and continues to shine as the team captain who sets the standard for them.

 

3. Both players have had a unique impact on the game

Their style of play may greatly differ, but there's no denying that both Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tim Duncan are vastly unique talents. Especially with them being two multi-skilled big men that can excel playing at the power forward and center spots. Whereas Giannis possesses more flash and explosiveness to his game, Duncan was just the opposite.

His lack of athleticism is what allowed him to dominate the game playing a very dull and basic brand of basketball. However, he had mastered the mid-range game throughout his career and even knocked down some clutch 3-pointers from time to time. Duncan's continued commitment to further developing his game is what led to him becoming the best power forward of all-time. Giannis follows a similar path as he consistently gets better with each season.

Giannis' ability to handle the rock like a point guard paired with his slashing ability and well-rounded offensive game have made him a nightmare cover. Giannis and Duncan are also two of the greatest defensive players to ever set foot on the hardwood. Both players are dominant two-way stars that rarely fold under pressure. Duncan was a silent assassin, but Giannis is a fierce stretch forward that can affect the game in a multitude of ways.