Having already accomplished everything the NBA has to offer, Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has refused to let his stardom alter his mentality. This is largely why he and the Bucks have been so successful, but it also directly contrasts how many superstars operate. Rather than having his teammates adjust to him, the 2021 Finals MVP says he’ll gladly adjust to them.
In a recent interview, which was captured by Harris Stavrou of SPORT24, Giannis said, “You can’t adjust 11 people around me. I am not that type of guy. I have to adjust to everybody, I will do whatever my team needs, I will screen, I will play at five if I have to.” With players like Anthony Davis showing a reluctance to play the five throughout his career, despite never reaching the heights Giannis has reached, it is refreshing to see a superstar with this mentality.
While such a mindset is infectious when displayed by a team’s best player, Antetokounmpo’s approach also has a direct impact on his game. Despite reaching the game’s greatest heights, the superstar forward has added to his game each summer, and has continued to do so this offseason.
He’s gotten even better?
In a recent video from one of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s offseason training sessions, the two-time MVP could be seen drilling threes with a much more refined stroke. With his jump-shot being the last remaining element of his game that has yet to reach an elite territory, Giannis has made it a point of emphasis this offseason.
Already a league MVP, Finals MVP, and Defensive Player of the Year, Giannis has dominated the NBA without a consistent jumper. The superstar forward could return next season with the exact same game he had last year, and be arguably the game’s best player. Because of that, Giannis could also demand the Milwaukee Bucks alter their roster after losing to the Boston Celtics last season; however, just like he chooses to adapt to his teammates, Giannis has chosen to refine his jump-shot.
The Bucks will be back
Having lost Khris Middleton to injury before their series with the Boston Celtics, the Milwaukee Bucks were eliminated in seven games by the eventual Eastern Conference champions. Giannis was incredible in those seven games, averaging 33.9 PPG, 14.7 RPG, and 7.1 APG, but it was not enough to overcome the loss of his co-star.
Based on his comments and consistent work this summer, it would be logical to assume this series loss helped fuel Giannis even more. The superstar forward is never content, and despite putting up historic numbers against the Celtics, took a level of responsibility for that loss. The combination of an improved and motivated Giannis, along with the return of Khris Middleton, should have the Bucks right back in contention.
If the Bucks indeed reestablish themselves next season, especially without any drastic offseason moves, fans can point back to the mindset and work ethic recently shared by Giannis Antetokounmpo as a big reason why.
