Milwaukee – Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks views his recent career milestone as a demonstration of his unwavering dedication and consistent effort. The star athlete scored 32 points in a commanding 137-107 win over the Dallas Mavericks, raising his career point total to an impressive 20,010. This achievement places him among an elite group, becoming the 52nd player to reach this mark. Notably, only LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant, Wilt Chamberlain, and Michael Jordan achieved 20,000 points at a younger age than the 30-year-old Antetokounmpo.
Reflecting on his journey, Antetokounmpo hopes to inspire others who may not be the most naturally gifted but are disciplined and committed. “I hope a lot of people see me and I represent those who might not have it all but are disciplined and show up every night to do the right thing,” he stated. His development from a raw 18-year-old athlete, drafted 15th overall by the Bucks in 2013, to a dominant force in the NBA, is a testament to his work ethic.
Early in his career, Antetokounmpo sought advice from former players on what it takes to succeed in the NBA. “The greats never get bored,” he said, a lesson he has taken to heart. Now a two-time MVP, he credits his heart, spirit, and discipline as the key differentiators in his career. His post-game routine, which includes lifting weights regardless of the game outcome, exemplifies his commitment. “I will do what’s necessary. I will do the job. I won’t negotiate with myself,” he said.
This consistency has cemented his status as one of the top superstars of his generation. Currently second in the league in scoring and sixth in rebounding, Antetokounmpo is on track to make history again with his impressive stats. Bucks coach Doc Rivers acknowledged the superstar’s incredible consistency, stating, “It’s like Groundhog Day. He does it every day, same thing. We shouldn’t take it for granted.”
Antetokounmpo’s milestone was particularly meaningful, achieved against Dallas, where he began his journey under coach Jason Kidd. The Bucks celebrated the moment with a special video after he crossed the 20,000-point threshold. He joins Damian Lillard as the second player on the Bucks’ roster to reach this career milestone. Lillard praised Antetokounmpo for his unique scoring style, noting it’s impressive in an era dominated by three-point shooting.
Looking ahead, Antetokounmpo is determined to continue his upward trajectory. While he anticipates joining the ranks of those who reached the 30,000-point mark, he maintains a broader perspective on his legacy. “It’s not a goal of mine,” he said about reaching 30,000 points. He emphasized the importance of winning and being acknowledged by the greats as a true measure of legacy. “I think winning counts more in your legacy and things that you leave behind,” he stated.
Throughout his journey, Antetokounmpo remains focused on earning respect from those who have paved the way before him, striving for acknowledgment from the legends of the game.
