Fansided

Giannis Antetokounmpo to play for Greece this summer

By Jack Maloney

Apr 16, 2014; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) heads up court with the ball during the fourth quarter against the Atlanta Hawks at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Atlanta won 111-103. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 16, 2014; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) heads up court with the ball during the fourth quarter against the Atlanta Hawks at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Atlanta won 111-103. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

After being a relative unknown just a year ago, Giannis Antetokounmpo quickly became a fan favorite–both in Milwaukee and across the country. Giannis was not expected to play very much — if at all — but the Bucks suffered numerous injuries, giving him an opportunity to play, and even start a number of games.

More from Milwaukee Bucks

He didn’t put up incredible stats, but he showed flashes of brilliance–especially in the open court where he loved to get out and run, throwing down more than a few breathtaking dunks. Along with the deft ability he showed to know when to cut towards the basket, Giannis gave Bucks fans a lot of hope for the future–something they didn’t have a lot of going into the season.

The young forward now has a full summer to work on his game, and in addition to playing for the Bucks in the Summer League, Giannis will be playing for Greek U20 National Team.

From CBS, via EuroHoops.net

"That’s why Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Greek federation and Milwaukee Bucks agreed in a formula that seems to be a win-win situation for every one involved.The Greek forward will not be a member of the Greek U20 national team in the upcoming Eurobasket, which will be held at the island of Crete between 8 and 20 of July, in order to play in the Las Vegas Summer League with the Bucks at the 11th of July.After that, the “Greek freak” will return to Greece and will take part in the training camp of the senior Greek national team which will compete in the upcoming FIBA World Cup in Spain. Antetokounmpo will have to fight for a place in the final roster and his performance during the camp, which will be held at Karpenisi, Greece, will decide his fate."

Giannis will have plenty of opportunities to work on his game, but after looking like he tailed off at the end of last season due to the heavy workload, this extensive summer schedule may be cause for a little concern.

In any case, it will be exciting to see how Giannis improves heading into next year.

Home/Milwaukee Bucks