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“That just says a lot about him, his work ethic and his determination” - NBA great Hakeem Olajuwon praises Giannis Antetokounmp

Hakeem is impressed with Giannis’ work ethic.
Matthew Dugandzic|
© Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

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Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis Antetokounmpo has accomplished something that other players could only dream of. But despite his numerous accomplishments in the NBA, the Greek Freak is still looking for ways to improve, and that’s what makes him special in the eyes of one of the NBA greats.

Hakeem Olajuwon spoke highly of the two-time MVP after the two worked out together in Houston.

Giannis continuing to get better

Olajuwon found it “amazing” that Antetokounmpo is still putting in the work to improve his craft.

“It's amazing when you see a guy like Giannis still looking to improve and take his game to another level. That just says a lot about him, his work ethic, and his determination to be the very best he can be,” Olajuwon said, per Mark Berman.

Olajuwon, who played 19 seasons in the Association, won one MVP award, two NBA titles, and earned 12 All-Star selections, cherished the time he shared with Giannis.

“I was very honored to be working with him, and it was so much fun and joyful because we have the same background, his parents are from Nigeria. We discussed a lot of things, basketball and not basketball. It was very nice,” Hakeem said.

Determined to bounce back

Giannis took time to train with Hakeem as he is leaving no stone unturned in his bid to help the Milwaukee Bucks bounce back from a disappointing campaign last season.

The Bucks drew heavy flak after their shock first-round exit last season. Milwaukee was solid all season long, emerging as the number-one seed in the playoffs. The Bucks, however, sputtered in the playoffs, failing to get past the first round after losing to the No. 8 seed Miami Heat in just five games.

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Matthew Dugandzic
MATTHEW DUGANDZIC

Matthew finished his bachelor's degree in Economics (Management) at the University of Split and got his master's degree in the same field at the University of Zadar. Whether it is playing the game as an undersized 6'3'' power forward or simply watching it, Matthew can't get enough of it. After all, he has been an avid NBA fan since the 2000s. But don't get him wrong, as Matthew still loves the old-school NBA and is a true student of the game. From on-court moments to off-court stuff, whether it's about the stars of modern-day basketball or legends of the game, Matthew covers every category of the NBA world and basketball in general, as long as it makes for an engaging and exciting story.