FIBA

Giannis Antetokounmpo: MVP matters less than national team victory

Sep 23, 2025 12:02 PM

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s tears at EuroBasket 2025 weren’t just for himself – they were for all of Greece, a nation that had waited 16 years for basketball glory.

Standing on the podium with a gold medal, the two-time NBA MVP felt both personal triumph and national pride.

“I am happy, I am healthy, my family is well. We came third in Europe. I’m doing fine,” Giannis told Sport24. “Of course I rejoiced a lot because many people rejoiced, and when I go out in the street, or when my family goes out, I feel the love.”

What outsiders saw as a bronze medal, Giannis saw as redemption.

“You saw how I reacted at the end. You would say I did a three-peat with the Chicago Bulls. For many, my reaction was excessive. Not for people here from Greece, but for people in America. They couldn’t understand.”

For him, the medal symbolized keeping a promise.

“I wanted to achieve something with the National Team and it is something I was missing. Winning MVP may be important, but winning something with the National Team is more important. Sorry, but it is.”

The weight of expectation each summer only fueled his determination.

“I told [Kostas] Papanikolaou, ‘Guys, I want the medal. I want it.’ I entered training camp very focused and gave the example that we are here to become better and concentrate on ourselves.”

Giannis’ joy extended beyond himself to his teammates and family.

“I’m glad that I made the success with my brothers, which is even more special. And I’m very happy for my mother, who was able to see that.”

Even in victory, he looks ahead.

“We have more to go than to bronze. Teams are improving a lot … We must train, have kids having good seasons, and be ready in two years from now to help the team.”