Last week, Giannis Antetokounmpo has celebrated his 30th birthday, and the double MVP has still not given up. Like LeBron James or Stephen Curry at the same age, the “Greek Freak” seems to get better with time, and he clearly takes LeBron as an example. A few days before celebrating his 40th birthday, the Lakers winger proves that the 40-year barrier is no longer an obstacle, and that we can still play very well at this very advanced age.
“I’m thinking about it…” admits Giannis. “What he's doing is incredible, and it's unheard of, especially at this level of play. Personally, I always look at the other players who have kind of set a model for us, and that's something that has never been done before. Now, over the years, it’s something I always think about. I tell myself that I absolutely want to play until the end of my career, around 37, 38, 39 years old, as long as my body allows me. »
No thirty-year-old MVP since 2006
A few days ago, the Bucks superstar confided that he would be very moved by the idea of winning a third MVP trophy. In the past, there have been MVPs in their thirties, like Michael Jordan or Karl Malone, but no one has achieved this since Steve Nash in 2006. Another example of longevity.
“I have to take good care of my body, which I believe I do, but LeBron kind of set the path for us, he set the plan for us.” he continues. “We just have to follow. Whoever wants to follow it has the plan, and so I want to follow it. But not everyone is the same. You not only have to be involved – not only take care of your body, but also your game. You also have to be involved in your game, change it in some way. There are so many things that play an important role for you to play until you are 40 years old. »
Besides, the Greek does not really set limits. “If I can do it, I will. And if I can play until I'm 45, I will. Otherwise, it’s like this…”
