“The world saw it and everyone was surprised. My brother feels Greek and you have to put aside what people say.”

Francis Antetokounmpo, brother of Bucks star Giannis, spoke to Greek media outlet Priono recently, opening up on his relationship with his brother, his country and his heritage.

It’s not often we hear such openness from someone in the inner circle of a sports star, and Francis’ insights gave basketball fans a peek behind the curtain as to how things work on a personal level for the player and those closest to them.

Since his arrival to the NBA in 2013, Giannis has become a star, becoming NBA champion in 2021, cup champion in 2024 and a 9-time All Star.

Francis was born in the African nation of Nigeria before his parents moved to Athens, where Giannis was born, and the 36-year-old prefers to keep a low profile: “Apart from my music, I don’t usually go out in public”, he said. “I do Afro music, because it’s in my culture. I have a lot of offers for shows in America.”

As for his relationship with Greece, Francis said that “I’ve been in Greece for the last 5-6 years, because my family is here.”

‘Every person you see, regardless of colour, can become great’

“I hadn’t seen my family in about 29 years. When I met my family it was a big moment. It was my dream to live with them. It was difficult to bring me to Greece, but the right time came and now I’m here. I live in Psychiko. We all live together in the same house.”

“My life in Nigeria was good. In addition to my parents, I also grew up with my grandparents, who were like my parents. I never expected something like this to happen, it was a big blow", he admitted, before explaining proudly that ”my family’s history should teach a lot of people. Every person you see, regardless of colour, tomorrow they can become very great. It was meant to be.”

As to the real, behind-the-scenes personality of Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, Francis said that “he is a human being. We are his family and he always has time for his family. When he plays games, he is focused there, but that does not mean he does not have a family." He then admitted that “my brother feels Greek and you have to put aside what people say" regarding his identity and the talk around it.

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Giannis Antetokounmpo recently made history in the NBA by netting a stunning triple-double, scoring 35 points, making 17 rebounds, and providing 20 assists in one game. His stunning show of talent saw the Milwaukee Bucks come away with a 126-113 victory over the depleted and self-destructing Philadelphia 76ers.

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