VILLENEUVE-D’ASCQ, France — No one could tell how Giannis Antetokounmpo was feeling.
His Greek team had just made history, winning its first Olympic men’s basketball game in 16 years by downing Australia 77-71 on Friday afternoon and keeping hope alive of advancing to the knockout rounds in Paris. But as had been the case when Greece lost to Canada and Spain, Antetokounmpo walked briskly through the media mixed zone at Pierre Mauroy Stadium in the kind of silent and sullen way that made many people in the room wonder whether the 29-year-old Milwaukee Bucks star wasn’t enjoying his inaugural Olympics experience.
But 20 minutes later, Antetokounmpo made a surprising return to the press area, grabbed a stool before settling in, and finally began to speak. And by the time his 12-minute visit with reporters was over, it was quite clear this past week has been one of the most special times of his inspirational and fascinating life.
“I’m trying to enjoy every single day with my teammates,” said Antetokounmpo, the son of Nigerian immigrants who was born in Athens and would later become the subject of a Disney movie. “I remember I came the first day and texted my wife, and I told her, ‘I cannot stop smiling.’ You know, just the atmosphere and the vibe, it’s just…
