Giannis Antetokounmpo is many things. He is a seven-time All-Star, a two-time league MVP, an NBA Champion, and a future Hall of Fame candidate. According to ESPN’s Shannon Sharpe, the Greek Freak is also a nepotist.
On a Wednesday edition of ESPN’s “First Take, the Hall of Fame tight end didn’t mince words when discussing the superstar’s insistence that the Milwaukee Bucks also roster his two siblings, Thanasis and Alex. What apparently motivated Sharpe to voice this take was an appearance Antetokoounmpo recently made on the 48 Minutes podcast. During a portion of the podcast, Giannis spoke on his future in Milwaukee, saying:
“As long as we play and we approach the game every single day the right way, and we all sacrifice for the common goal, I can see myself being a Milwaukee Buck for the rest of my career. But the moment I feel people are not as committed as I am to get that golden thing (the Larry O’Brien Trophy) in the back, I am not. I am a Milwaukee Buck. But most importantly, I am a winner.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Giannis Antetokounmpo & Milwaukee Bucks Updates
It’s quite the statement. One that caused Sharpe to indirectly respond, well sharply.
“You got your brothers occupying two roster spots,” Sharpe said in response to Antetokounmpo’s comments. “You know good and well, Giannis, your brothers (are) probably not going to be playing for any other team in the NBA except Milwaukee, and that’s only because of you.”
Does Sharpe have a point? In the literal sense, yes. Based on their performance, or lack thereof, Thanasis and Alex Antetokounmpo could easily be considered undeserving of an NBA roster spot. It is for that exact reason, however, that the Bucks waived Alex shortly after signing him earlier this month. While he is expected to remain with the organization, playing for the G League affiliate Wisconsin Herd, he will not take up one of the Bucks’ 15 regular player slots or even one of their three two-way contracts.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Giannis Antetokounmpo & Milwaukee Bucks Updates
The 15th player on the roster rarely makes enough of an impact to affect championship aspirations. So whether that player is Thansis or another end-of-bench player, not even a rotation piece, it effectively does not matter. If the alternative were a surefire playoff contributor, then one would certainly have a case, but given the Bucks’ current financial situation, adding such a player—that is, if one were available—is not on the table regardless of Thanasis.
If Giannis were to say his decision was related to the team’s decision not to roster a stronger 15th man, it would be a legacy-altering move. Realistically, Giannis’ future decision will have far more to do with the playoff rotation and coaching staff.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
