Jrue Holiday recently shared some amusing and insightful anecdotes about his former Milwaukee Bucks teammate Giannis Antetokounmpo, describing him as “the cheapest guy I know” during an appearance on Podcast P with Paul George. Despite earning over $283 million in NBA contracts, with more on the way thanks to his $175 million supermax extension, Giannis still lives as though he’s on a tight budget.”
“He’s the cheapest guy I know. He’s got all that money, but again, I think it’s just because of where he started. He really didn’t have any money, and now he’s still living like he doesn’t have any money. You can’t change that.”
“I’ve never seen him take a game off. I’ve never seen him take a practice off. Remember when Giannis got hurt in that Atlanta series? He was out for about a week, but when we got to the Finals, that practice before the Finals was the first day he actually practiced with us. He’s going 150 miles an hour, dunking, and going all out.”
“We’re like, ‘If you don’t slow your ass down, we don’t need you for today. We need you tomorrow!’ But that’s just the type of mentality and hunger that Giannis has every single game.”
Holiday credited Giannis’s humble beginnings in Greece for shaping his thrifty habits, which persist despite his massive wealth. Born to Nigerian immigrants in Athens, Giannis grew up selling trinkets on the streets to help his family make ends meet.
His rise from poverty to global superstardom is the stuff of fairy tales, but his modest lifestyle demonstrates that his values remain deeply rooted in his upbringing. While his peers might indulge in luxury lifestyles, Giannis continues to prioritize simplicity and hard work.
Holiday also spoke about Giannis’s relentless drive on the basketball court, a trait that complements his grounded off-court persona. Reflecting on the Bucks’ 2021 championship run, Holiday recalled a pivotal moment in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Atlanta Hawks when Giannis suffered a knee injury. Despite missing games, Giannis returned to practice at full speed before the NBA Finals, astonishing teammates with his intensity.
This dedication paid dividends when Giannis led the Bucks to their first NBA title in 50 years, culminating in a legendary 50-point performance in Game 6 of the Finals against the Phoenix Suns. His tireless work ethic and unwavering focus on improvement are why many consider him one of the most dominant players of his generation.
What makes Giannis’s story even more compelling is his juxtaposition of superstar talent and down-to-earth demeanor. As Holiday pointed out, Giannis remains focused on his craft and family rather than succumbing to the excesses often associated with fame and fortune. While his career earnings are set to surpass $500 million by the end of his playing days, his commitment to frugality and humility is a testament to his character.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s journey is a rare blend of grit, talent, and unwavering values. For all his accomplishments on the court, it is his humility and determination that leave the greatest impression on teammates like Holiday and fans alike. It’s not just his bank account that makes him rich—it’s the depth of his character.
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