The Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Phoenix Suns 105-98 in Game 6 of the NBA Finals, winning the 2021 NBA Championship.
Giannis Antetokounmpo lead the team to a great game, recorded 50 points, 14 rebounds, and five blocks.
Antetokounmpo was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the series, becoming only the first player in NBA history with 50+ points, 10+ rebounds, and 5+ blocks in a Finals game. He is also the first player ever to average 30/10/5 on 60 percent shooting in a Finals series.
“I started playing basketball just to help my family. Tried to get them out of the struggle, the challenges we were facing when we were kids. But I never thought I’m going to be 26 years old, with my team playing the NBA Finals. Just playing — like, I was just happy just being like not even winning, just being a part of this, of this journey. But I never thought I would be sitting here with this right here and this right here (the championship and MVP trophies.) We’ve come a long way,” Giannis said.
Giannis has his own rags-to-riches story…
“I represent my country, both countries, Nigeria and Greece. A lot of kids from there. But not just from Nigeria; all Africa and all Europe. I know I’m a role model. But this should make every person, every kid, anybody around the world believe in their dreams. No matter whatever you feel when you’re down, when you don’t think it’s going to happen for you or you might not make it in your career — might be basketball, might be anything — just believe on what you’re doing and keep working. Don’t let nobody tell you what you can be and what you cannot do. People told me I cannot make free throws. I made my free throws tonight and I’m a freaking champion. I made them when I’m supposed to make them. I’m joking — actually, I’m not (laughter). Just believe, man. I hope I give people around the world, from Africa, from Europe, hope that it can be done. It can be done. Eight years ago, eight and a half years ago, when I came to the league, I didn’t know where my next meal will come from. My mom was selling stuff in the street. Now I’m here sitting at the top of the top. I’m extremely blessed. I’m extremely blessed. If I never have a chance to sit on this table ever again, I’m fine with it. I’m fine with it. I hope this can give everybody around the world hope. I want them to believe in their dreams.”
It is the Bucks’ second championship following their 1971 title 50 years ago.
Share your thoughts on this article and join the conversation on Twitter or Facebook.
