From a lanky, unknown kid from Greece, who used to sell fake watches on the street, Giannis Antetokounmpo is now an NBA champion.
It doesn't get more poetic than that.
Giannis' competitiveness is understated. It could be recalled that in 2017, he asked Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant for a specific challenge. Kobe has done it to other young players in the past, and so the Milwaukee Bucks upstart wanted his as well.
Still waiting for my challenge.. @kobebryant
— Giannis Antetokounmpo (@Giannis_An34) August 24, 2017
After two days, Kobe responded with a three-letter challenge.
— Kobe Bryant (@kobebryant) August 27, 2017
Of course, as we all know, Giannis exceeded the challenge, winning back-to-back MVPs, something that Kobe wasn't even able to accomplish in his illustrious career.
After The Greek Freak won his first MVP in 2019, Kobe issued another challenge: A championship ring.
My man….M.V.P. Greatness. 🙌🏾💪🏾 Next up: Championship. #MambaMentality https://t.co/dhZTFI1Aam
— Kobe Bryant (@kobebryant) June 25, 2019
Giannis embraced the mission, but he repeatedly fell short in the NBA Playoffs. He got close several times but the Bucks simply couldn't reach the Last Dance. Last season, Giannis even got injured in the postseason, derailing their title hopes anew despite holding the best record in the regular season.
But good things take time. On Tuesday, in front of a boisterous home crowd, Giannis finally accomplished Kobe's challenge. He led the Bucks over the Phoenix Suns in Game 6 with a mind-boggling Kobe-like performance of 50 points and 14 rebounds, while showcasing his innate competitiveness all game.
Giannis Antetokounmpo made the first basket for the Bucks in Game 6 and also scored the last point of the contest to seal his maiden NBA title.
It doesn't get more fitting than that.
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