Giannis Antetokounmpo Biography: Age, Height, Family, Career, Net Worth, and Inspiring Facts (2025)
Giannis Antetokounmpo is a Greek-Nigerian professional basketball player renowned for his extraordinary skills, athleticism, and inspiring journey from humble beginnings to NBA superstardom. Nicknamed the “Greek Freak,” he has become one of the most dominant and influential figures in basketball history, leading the Milwaukee Bucks to an NBA Championship and earning multiple MVP awards. His remarkable story, both on and off the court, continues to captivate fans around the world.

Quick Facts
Full Name | Giannis Sina Ugo Antetokounmpo |
Nickname | Greek Freak |
Profession / Occupation | Professional Basketball Player |
Birth Date | December 6, 1994 |
Age | 30 (as of 2025) |
Birth Place | Athens, Greece |
Nationality | Greek, Nigerian |
Famous For | NBA MVP, NBA Champion, Olympic Athlete |
Known For | Milwaukee Bucks, exceptional versatility, philanthropy |
Ethnicity | Nigerian-Greek |
Zodiac Sign | Sagittarius |
Height & Weight | 6 ft 11 in (211 cm), 243 lbs (110 kg) |
Hair Color | Black |
Eye Color | Dark Brown |
Education | Filathlitikos Youth Academy (Athens) |
Religion | Christian (Greek Orthodox) |
Marital Status/Spouse | Married (Mariah Riddlesprigger) |
Children | 2 (sons: Liam Charles, Maverick Shai) |
Relatives | Thanasis, Kostas, Alex (brothers, all basketball players) |
Hobbies | Soccer, music, philanthropy, family time |
Employer/Organization | Milwaukee Bucks (NBA) |
Years Active | 2011–present |
Net Worth (Estimated) | $120 million (2025) |
Early Life & Education
Giannis Antetokounmpo was born on December 6, 1994, in Athens, Greece, to Nigerian immigrant parents, Charles and Veronica Antetokounmpo. Growing up in the Sepolia neighborhood, Giannis and his brothers faced economic hardship, often helping their family by selling goods on the streets. Despite challenges, Giannis developed a passion for sports, initially playing soccer before discovering basketball at age 13. He joined the Filathlitikos Youth Academy, where his talent quickly became evident. Giannis did not attend a traditional university but focused on developing his basketball skills, which paved his path to a professional career.
Career Journey
Beginnings in Greece
Giannis started his basketball journey with Filathlitikos B.C. in Athens, playing in Greece’s semi-professional leagues. His unique blend of size, agility, and skill quickly attracted attention from NBA scouts.
NBA Draft and Early Years
- Selected 15th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2013 NBA Draft.
- Made his NBA debut at age 18, showing flashes of brilliance with his versatility and work ethic.
Rise to Stardom
- Progressed rapidly, improving his stats each season and becoming the Bucks’ franchise player.
- Named NBA Most Improved Player in 2017.
Peak Years and Achievements
- Won back-to-back NBA MVP awards in 2019 and 2020.
- Led the Milwaukee Bucks to their first NBA Championship in 50 years (2021), earning NBA Finals MVP.
- Multiple NBA All-Star selections and All-NBA Team honors.
Recent Activity & Current Position
- Remains the cornerstone of the Milwaukee Bucks, continuing to set records and inspire teammates.
- Active ambassador for basketball globally and a leader in community initiatives.
Career Stats & Highlights
- NBA Career Points (as of 2025): Over 18,000
- NBA Career Rebounds: Over 8,500
- NBA Career Assists: Over 4,000
- Career Averages: 22.8 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 4.5 APG
Personal Life
Giannis is married to Mariah Riddlesprigger, a former volleyball player. The couple has two sons, Liam Charles and Maverick Shai. Giannis is deeply family-oriented, often seen spending quality time with his brothers—Thanasis, Kostas, and Alex—all of whom are professional basketball players. Off the court, he is known for his humility, philanthropy, and commitment to giving back to both Greek and Nigerian communities. Giannis enjoys playing soccer, listening to music, and engaging in charitable activities.
Awards & Achievements
- NBA Champion (2021)
- NBA Finals MVP (2021)
- 2× NBA Most Valuable Player (2019, 2020)
- NBA All-Star (8×, 2017–2024)
- NBA Most Improved Player (2017)
- All-NBA First Team (multiple years)
- NBA All-Defensive First Team
- NBA All-Star Game MVP (2021)
- Greek Male Athlete of the Year (2018)
Physical Statistics
- Height: 6 ft 11 in (211 cm)
- Weight: 243 lbs (110 kg)
- Wingspan: 7 ft 3 in (221 cm)
- Body Measurements: Athletic, muscular build
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
- Hair Color: Black
- Shoe Size: US 16
- Sexuality: Straight
Quotes
“I am just a kid from Sepolia. If I can do it, anybody can do it.”
“Never be afraid to fail. Be afraid not to try.”
“As long as we play together and we fight for one another, we can achieve anything.”
Controversies
Giannis Antetokounmpo has largely maintained a positive public image throughout his career. Minor controversies have included on-court altercations and outspoken moments during games, but he is widely respected for his professionalism and sportsmanship.
Favorites
- Favorite Food: Souvlaki, Nigerian jollof rice
- Favorite Athlete: Kobe Bryant
- Favorite Music: Hip-hop, Afrobeat
- Favorite Movie: “Coming to America”
- Favorite Hobbies: Soccer, video games, family time
Salary & Net Worth
As of 2025, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s estimated net worth is $120 million, primarily earned through his NBA salary, endorsements (Nike, JBL, WhatsApp, and more), and business ventures. His annual NBA salary exceeds $45 million, making him one of the highest-paid athletes globally. Endorsement deals and investments further contribute to his impressive financial standing.
Interesting Facts
- Giannis received Greek citizenship in 2013, allowing him to enter the NBA draft.
- He and his brothers are the only sibling trio to have all won NBA championships.
- Known for his generosity, Giannis has donated millions to charities in Greece, Nigeria, and the U.S.
- He started playing basketball at age 13 and was drafted into the NBA just five years later.
- Giannis is fluent in Greek, English, and understands some Yoruba.
Social Media Links
- Instagram: @giannis_an34
- Twitter/X: @Giannis_An34
- Facebook: Giannis Antetokounmpo
- YouTube: Giannis Antetokounmpo
Frequently Asked Questions
- How old is Giannis Antetokounmpo in 2025?
Giannis is 30 years old as of 2025, born on December 6, 1994. - What is Giannis Antetokounmpo’s height and weight?
He stands 6 feet 11 inches tall (211 cm) and weighs 243 lbs (110 kg). - Who is Giannis Antetokounmpo’s wife?
He is married to Mariah Riddlesprigger, and they have two sons together. - What teams has Giannis played for?
Giannis has played his entire NBA career with the Milwaukee Bucks since being drafted in 2013. - What is Giannis Antetokounmpo’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is around $120 million as of 2025, including salary and endorsements. - What are some of Giannis’s biggest achievements?
He is a two-time NBA MVP, NBA Champion, NBA Finals MVP, and has multiple All-Star and All-NBA honors.
Conclusion
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s journey from the streets of Athens to NBA greatness is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the power of dreams. His impact on basketball and global sports culture is undeniable, inspiring millions with his story and achievements. Share this biography to celebrate the legacy of the “Greek Freak!”
Sources: NBA.com, ESPN, Basketball Reference, Forbes, The Guardian, BBC Sport, Milwaukee Bucks Official Website