Giannis Antetokounmpo explained why he doesn't want Bucks fans to call him 'MVP'
It’s been a huge offseason for Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo.
He was named NBA MVP and launched his own Nike signature shoe line all in the past few weeks. But when it comes to the title of MVP, Giannis would prefer it if Bucks fans didn’t remind him about the honor.
Antetokounmpo was speaking at an event in Milwaukee to celebrate his MVP award, but he asked the crowd to stop calling him “MVP” after the day’s event (and through the season). He didn’t want the customary “M-V-P” chants at the free-throw line. In fact, after Sunday, he didn’t want to hear about winning MVP at all.
He explained his reasoning to the fans:
“After this day, July 14, please, please, please do me a huge favor, so I can be better, I can be a better player, so I can bring this city a championship. Please don’t call me MVP. Listen, listen, listen, listen. Please, after this day, don’t call me MVP until I win it again next year.”
Hey, it makes sense. Antetokounmpo’s entire career trajectory has been based on him overcoming doubts and questions. He prefers that chip on his shoulder rather than having everyone remind him how great he is now.
While he’ll almost certainly hear the “M-V-P” chants next year, it was worth a try. And he went on to lead the crowd in one “last” chant.