Childhood and Education Journey of Giannis Antetokounmpo in Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Giannis Antetokounmpo, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Giannis Antetokounmpo, a Nigerian-Greek professional basketball player for the Milwaukee Bucks, is known as the "Greek Freak" due to his exceptional size, speed, and strength. He is considered one of the greatest players and power forwards in NBA history.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

December 6, 1994: Giannis Antetokounmpo's Birth

On December 6, 1994, Giannis Sina Ugo Adetokunbo was born in Athens, Greece, to Nigerian immigrant parents.

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2007: Started playing basketball

In 2007, Giannis Antetokounmpo started playing basketball.

October 28, 2012: Baptism in Greek Orthodox Church

On October 28, 2012, Giannis Antetokounmpo and his brother Alex were baptized in the Greek Orthodox Church.

May 9, 2013: Issued Greek citizenship

On May 9, 2013, Giannis Antetokounmpo was issued Greek citizenship, which allowed him to travel outside the country and effectively ended his stateless status.

2015: Received Nigerian citizenship

In 2015, Giannis Antetokounmpo received his Nigerian passport, granting him dual citizenship.

July 2016: Military Service in Greece

In July 2016, Giannis and his brother Thanasis began their mandatory military service in Greece. They served a reduced three-month term due to being permanent overseas residents.

September 2017: Death of Charles Antetokounmpo

In September 2017, Giannis Antetokounmpo's father, Charles, passed away at the age of 54. Charles was a Nigerian football player.

March 13, 2020: $100,000 Donation to Fiserv Forum Staff

On March 13, 2020, Giannis Antetokounmpo and his family pledged to donate $100,000 to the staff of the Fiserv Forum who were unable to work during the suspension of the 2019-20 NBA season due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

August 20, 2021: Minority Owner of Milwaukee Brewers

On August 20, 2021, Giannis Antetokounmpo became a minority owner of the Milwaukee Brewers of Major League Baseball.

August 2022: Partnership with Calamos Advisors for Sustainable Equities Fund

In August 2022, Calamos Advisors announced a partnership with Giannis Antetokounmpo to launch the Calamos Antetokounmpo Sustainable Equities Fund, an exchange-traded fund investing in sustainable firms.

2022: Release of "Rise" film

In 2022, the film "Rise", based on the life of Giannis Antetokounmpo and his family, was released.

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March 2023: Minority Owner in Nashville SC

In March 2023, Giannis Antetokounmpo, along with his brothers Alex, Thanasis, and Kostas, became minority owners in the Major League Soccer club Nashville SC.

June 2023: Shareholders and Owners of Candy Funhouse

In June 2023, Giannis Antetokounmpo and his brothers Thanasis, Kostas and Alex became shareholders and owners of the Canadian online confectionary retailer, Candy Funhouse.

July 10, 2024: Named Flag Bearer for Paris 2024 Olympic Games

On July 10, 2024, the Greek Olympic Committee designated Giannis Antetokounmpo, along with race walker Antigoni Drisbioti, as the flag bearer for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, recognizing his sporting achievements.

September 1, 2024: Marriage to Mariah Riddlesprigger

On September 1, 2024, Giannis Antetokounmpo married Mariah Riddlesprigger in a private ceremony at the Costa Navarino resort near Pylos, with Khris Middleton as the best man.