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The story of Giannis Antetokounmpo's extraordinary rise from poverty in Athens, Greece to super-stardom in America with the Milwaukee Bucks—becoming one of the most transcendent players in history and an NBA champion—from award-winning basketball reporter and feature writer at The Ringer Mirin Fader, touching on universal themes of family, immigration, hard work, wealth, loss, and dreaming big.

As the face of the NBA's new world order, Giannis Antetokounmpo has overcome unfathomable obstacles to become a symbol of hope for people all over the world, the personification of the American Dream. But his backstory remains largely untold, and Fader unearths new information about the childhood that shaped "The Greek Freak"—from sleeping side by side with his brothers to selling trinkets on the side of the street with his family to the racism he experienced in Greece. Antetokounmpo grew up in an era when Golden Dawn, Greek's far-right, anti-immigrant party, patrolled his neighborhood, and his status as an illegal immigrant largely prevented him from playing for Greek's top clubs, making his rise to the NBA all the more improbable. Fader tells a deeply-human story of how an unknown, skinny, Black-Greek teen, who played in the country's lowest pro division and was seen as a draft gamble, transformed his body and his game into MVP material.

Antetokounmpo's story has been framed as a feel-good narrative in which the globe has embraced him, watching him grow up and lead the underdog Bucks to the NBA Championship in 2021. Giannis reveals a more nuanced story: how hesitant Antetokounmpo was, and still is, to spend money; how lonely and isolated he felt, adjusting to America and the NBA early in his career; the way he changed after his father recently died of a heart attack; the complexity of grappling with his Black and Greek identities; how private he is, so hard on himself and his shortcomings, a drive that fuels him every day; and the deep-rooted responsibility he feels to be a nurturing role model for his younger brothers. Fader illustrates a more vulnerable star than people know, a person who has evolved triumphantly into all of his roles: as father, brother, son, teammate, and global icon. Giannis gives readers a front-row seat as Antetokounmpo strives for an elusive championship with the Bucks, quelling speculation about potentially leaving Milwaukee after signing a five-year supermax contract extension worth $228 million. Now, he contends with his next big hurdle: proving that committing to a small-market franchise can bring Milwaukee back to glory.

Discover the remarkable journey of Giannis Antetokounmpo, from his humble beginnings in Greece to becoming a globally celebrated NBA MVP, in the captivating book "Giannis: The Improbable Rise of an NBA MVP" by Mirin Fader.

Born to Nigerian immigrants in Athens, Greece, Giannis faced immense challenges growing up. Despite the obstacles, his determination and natural athleticism propelled him to basketball stardom. Mirin Fader's book chronicles Giannis' extraordinary evolution, from a young boy selling trinkets on the streets of Athens to a dominant force in the NBA.

With vivid storytelling and extensive research, Fader paints a compelling portrait of Giannis' life and career. Readers will delve into his childhood, his family's sacrifices, and the unwavering support that shaped his character. The book also explores the cultural and societal barriers Giannis overcame to achieve his dreams, making his story an inspiration to aspiring athletes and individuals worldwide.

"Giannis: The Improbable Rise of an NBA MVP" offers an intimate look at Giannis' rise to prominence. Fader provides in-depth analysis of his exceptional skills, highlighting his unique combination of size, speed, and athleticism. The book also delves into his work ethic, perseverance, and the unwavering belief in himself and his abilities that led him to the pinnacle of basketball.

Giannis' story is not just about basketball; it's a testament to the power of hard work, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. "Giannis: The Improbable Rise of an NBA MVP" is a must-read for basketball fans, aspiring athletes, and anyone seeking inspiration from extraordinary life journeys.