Why Did Giannis Antetokounmpo Change His Original Last Name?

Many people believe that Giannis Antetokounmpo is currently the best basketball player in the NBA. His life story is also quite inspiring. Although his last name is now famous, it wasn’t always that way. When he was growing up, his last name was actually Adetokunbo.

“When you take another country’s passport, you’re name has to be spelled with their alphabet,” Giannis told Serge Ibaka on his “How Hungry Are You” show. “So in the D, they put NT, and in the B, they put MP. So it’s pronounced Antetokounmpo in the Greek way. But the Nigerian way, the way I knew my name growing up was Adetokunbo. But you know when you get the Greek passport, then you get the contract with the NBA, they have to put your last name exactly how it is in your passport on the back of your jersey.”

Giannis was born in Athens to Nigerian parents, and his birth name was Adetokunbo. However, when his parents registered him for his Greek passport, they had to change the spelling of his name to fit the Greek alphabet. They changed the “D” to “NT” and the “B” to “MP,” and his name became Antetokoumpo.

When Giannis moved to the United States to play in the NBA, he had to use the name on his passport, which was Antetokoumpo. He couldn’t go back to using his original name due to legal reasons, as the passport is the main document for someone entering a foreign country. So, all contracts and agreements he makes now have to use his current name, even though his Nigerian name could be translated into English.

Even if he had kept his birth name, it might have still been difficult for the sports media to pronounce it correctly. This situation highlights some of the challenges that foreign players face when trying to make it to the NBA.

About What He Wants To Be Remembered: Giannis Antetokounmpo

The Antetokounmpo name is one that will be remembered for generations to come, but for Giannis, it’s not just about his on-court achievements. He hopes to be remembered for his off-court contributions, inspiring others to reach new heights and achieve their goals.

Giannis’ story is a true inspiration, and the movie “Rise” helped bring his journey to the NBA into the spotlight. Watching the film gives you a glimpse into his life and how he became the man he is today. It’s truly remarkable to see how far he’s come, considering his humble beginnings.

Despite already winning a title, two MVP awards, a Finals MVP, and a Defensive Player of the Year award, Giannis is not done yet. He continues to work hard, and his legacy is sure to continue growing as the years go by.

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