Giannis Antetokounmpo has a unique story and work ethic that have taken him from the streets of Athens to becoming a two-time NBA MVP. One thing that separates him from other stars is his rare workout philosophy of not working out with active players. It's something he has mentioned here and there throughout his NBA career, and it holds strong to this day.
The Greek Freak spoke to Sport24 recently, saying that he prefers to work with some of the greatest basketball players from previous generations to open up his game. For instance, as his mid-range game has improved, one Hall of Famer he mentioned was Carmelo Anthony, hoping the former New York Knicks star can help improve his variety of shot selection.
Giannis does not want to work out with current players
In the modern NBA, it is common for players to work out with fellow active players from different teams. There are a plethora of trainers who work with a range of stars as they look to take their game to the next level. While they are competitors on the court, many players are friends off it. It's refreshing to hear a star not wanting to work with fellow active players.
Specifically, Giannis said, "I want to work with young guys and with LeBron, for example, I could work with LeBron, but he's still playing, I'll see him in a month or two and he'll be my opponent."
It is unique to see a player with the stance Giannis has on offseason workouts. Over the years, he has been spotted with multiple NBA legends. Back in 2017, the Greek Freak got in a workout with Hall of Famer and NBA Champion Kevin Garnett. A year later, he worked out with the late Kobe Bryant, one of the greatest players ever. A couple of years ago, he was spotted in the gym with Hakeem Olajuwon.
It's an impressive resume of workouts. Whether he gets his dream of training with Carmelo Anthony is yet to be seen, but it could certainly do a lot of good things for his blossoming mid-range and add to the list of high-profile names he's worked out with in his NBA career.
We may get more answers to the Bucks' game plan and training camp ideas as their media day is on Monday, September 29, expected to start at 11:00 CDT, so stay tuned.