Nigerian-American basketball player, Giannis Antetokounmpo gave an emotional tribute to his family after being named the MVP of the 2018-19 NBA season during the league’s award show on Monday night.
According to reports, the 24-year-old centreback broke down in tears as he gave his speech and explained how he plays every day for his late father.
Antetokounmpo was born to Nigerian parents in Greece.
His father is Charles, was a former Nigerian association football player, while his mother, Veronica, is a former high jumper.
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He said, “I want to thank my dad. Obviously, my dad is not here with me, but two years ago, I had to go in my head that I’m going to be the best player in the league.
“That I’m going to do whatever it takes to help my team win and that I’m going to win the MVP. Every day that I step on the floor I always think about my dad and that motivates me.
“It pushed me to play hard and move forward even when my body’s sore, even when I don’t feel like playing, I always go and show up and I’m always going to do the right thing,” Antetokounmpo said.
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Antetokounmpo also thanked his brothers, calling them “role models.”
His brothers had to fight tears as well, especially when Antetokounmpo started talking about their mother.
Watch the video below.
