Nigerian-Greek star Antetokounmpo signs richest deal in NBA history

Giannis Antetokounmpo, the basketball star born to Nigerian parents but who represents Greece, has signed what has been described as the biggest deal in the history of the American National Basketball Association, the world’s most prominent basketball league.
The NBA’s reigning two-time Most Valuable Player on Tuesday night signed a multi-year extension with the Milwaukee Bucks that is reportedly worth around $228 million over a five-year period.
“This is a big moment for me and my family and I want to thank the Bucks organization for believing in us,” Antetokounmpo said in a statement after confirming the deal. “You took a chance on us eight years ago and now putting my signature on a contract like this is unreal – but it’s all because of hard work. This is my home and I’m going to continue working hard and do my best to make the Bucks, our fans and the city proud. Let’s have fun, win and make these years count.”
Milwaukee Bucks co-owners Marc Lasry, Wes Edens and Jamie Dinan praised Antetokounmpo for his commitment to the franchise, as he would have been a much sought-after free agent in 2021.“Giannis is a once in a generation player and we are beyond excited for him to remain with the Bucks,” they said in a joint statement.  “Giannis positively impacts everyone around him on and off the court and he brings a staggering dedication to winning and leadership to our organization. His work ethic and desire to be the best epitomize what the Bucks stand for and what our future holds. We thank Giannis and his family for their long-term commitment to Milwaukee and we look forward to many years of success. This is a momentous day for the Bucks, our fans and the state of Wisconsin.”
Milwaukee General Manager Jon Horst said: “Giannis’ NBA career began as an 18-year old from the Sepolia neighborhood north of Athens, Greece. Through hard work, determination and an unequaled desire to be the best, Giannis has developed into a relentlessly driven, 26-year old, two-time Most Valuable Player, Defensive Player of the Year and four-time All-Star for the Milwaukee Bucks. “He’s an incredible teammate, a kind and caring person, an affable member of the Milwaukee community, and the leader of our team who sets the tone for our organization.”The 26-year-old Antetokounmpo won his second consecutive Most Valuable Player award last season and his first Defensive Player of the Year award, which made him only the third player in NBA history to earn both honours in the same season.  Antetokounmpo, now his eighth season with the Bucks, has been an NBA All-Star for the past four season and an All-Star captain for two seasons.Antetokounmpo has reached the playoffs in five of his eight seasons with the Bucks, including each of the last four seasons.”This is my home, this is my city,” he tweeted to celebrate the deal. “I’m blessed to be able to be a part of the Milwaukee Bucks for the next 5 years. Let’s make these years count. The show goes on, let’s get it.”