Giannis Antetokounmpo responded to Trump’s controversial remarks, widely criticized as racist, on the NBA player’s Greek heritage.
Following a Milwaukee Bucks‘ game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Antetokounmpo was asked about Trump’s remarks at a press conference.
The “Greek Freak,” as Antetokounmpo is often referred to, stated that he was unaware of the comments that former President Trump made and explained that he doesn’t follow politics closely.
“At the end of the day, I don’t follow politics that much,” Giannis said. “I’m here to win basketball games and not answer non-basketball questions.” He added that he wished both political candidates the best of luck and did not engage further in the discussion.
Trump’s bizarre claims on Antetokounmpo’s Greek heritage
During a recent rally in Milwaukee, former US President Donald Trump caused widespread controversy by questioning in a bizarre way whether he is more Greek than NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo.
This remark started a heated debate both in the United States and in Greece about the intent behind his peculiar remarks.
At the Fiserv Forum, Trump made several contentious comments, which many have interpreted as racially insensitive, specifically aimed at Antetokounmpo, known as “the Greek Freak.”
Addressing the crowd at the same venue that hosted the Republican National Convention earlier this year, Trump oddly compared his own Greek identity to that of the basketball player.
As we all know, Trump has no connection to Greece whatsoever. However, Antetokounmpo was born and raised in Greece, is a Greek citizen, speaks Greek fluently, and represents Greece’s national basketball team proudly.
The only difference is that Antetokounmpo has Nigerian heritage, as he is the son of two Nigerian migrants who moved to Athens decades ago.
In addressing his followers, Trump said, “Your team is very good. I would say the Greek is a seriously good player” and then proceeded to make his controversial remarks.
“Tell me, who has more Greek in him, the Greek or me?” Trump inquired. The crowd seemed to freeze at that point, with Trump immediately adding: “I think we have about the same, right?”
As there was no reaction from the crowd, Trump added, “Maybe he is the best player in the NBA.”
Many people online have been left wondering about Trump’s intentions in questioning Antetokounmpo’s Greek identity and drawing comparisons between himself and the NBA player.
Previously, Trump had also bragged about his “wonderful white skin,” stating that it wasn’t tanned because he was too busy with campaign duties to spend time sunbathing before the election.
Both these remarks attracted negative publicity, as they could very easily be interpreted as racially charged.
Related: Trump Asks Supporters If He Is “More Greek” Than Antetokounmpo
