Admittedly, Greece isn’t quite known for a full-blown basketball heritage, rather its own rich history, rich culture, and being the place where democracy was born.
Let’s be frank with ourselves: before Giannis Antetokounmpo, did you pay any attention to Greek basketball players in the NBA?
However, for many years, Greece has been sending our players to the NBA, contributing to some of the top-ranked European players currently in the NBA. Now, with Giannis Antetokounmpo arguably being the best from that part of Europe and playing in the top league, the focus is on the next rising star from Greece.
Before the next big name comes up, let’s take a look at all the top Greek basketball players in the NBA.
Giannis Antetokounmpo
NBA Ranking: #67
A dominant force on the court and a real powerhouse in the NBA.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s stats have earned him his place among Greece’s greatest basketball players in history. With his achievements, no one might top what he has accomplished in the NBA.
After joining the Bucks in 2013, Antetokounmpo became a perennial all-star in 2012 and the league’s most-improved player.
Antetokounmpo is popular for his all-around skill set, including the ability to aim in any position, which has made him a powerhouse who can combine finesse, agility, and raw power.
He has captured the hearts of basketball fans worldwide, turned his team into a serious top title contender, and left his mark on the game.
In 2020, Antetokounmpo etched his name into NBA history when he became the third player, alongside Micahel Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon, to win the Defensive Player of the Year and MVP in the same season.
Achievements/Resumé:
- 5× All-Defensive Team
- 8× All-NBA
- 1× All-Rookie Team
- 1× NBA Defensive Player of the Year
- 1× NBA Most Improved Player
- 2× NBA Most Valuable Player
- 8× NBA Player of the Month
- 15× NBA Player of the Week
- 1× NBA Finals Most Valuable Player
- 1× NBA In-Season Tournament All-Tournament
- 8× NBA All-Star
- 1× NBA Champion
Nick Calathes
NBA Ranking: #2520
Born in Florida but of Greek descent, Nick’s influence on the game can be seen in his ability to improve his teammates and his other-worldly court vision.
He could always find the open, and as a point guard, Calathes was commonly called the floor general since he took the lead in making offenses with efficiency and precision.
His defensive intensity and scoring prowess make him one of Greece’s top-talented basketball players.
Calathes would have achieved more in the NBA if he had stayed instead of returning to Greece. However, he remains one of the best players from Greece.
Achievements/Resumé:
- 1× NBA Rookie of the Month
Antonis Fotsis
NBA Ranking: #3562
Antonis Fotsis began his career in 1996 when he was 15 years old and continues to play to date.
He once served as the captain of the Greek men’s national basketball team, and is one of Greece’s most decorated players in the league’s history.
With an impressive height of 6’10”, he has an amazing shooting stroke, embodying the modern-day archetype of ‘stretch four.’
On his own, he’s capable of stretching defenses and shooting down shots past the arc. Not to talk about his insane knack for protecting the rim against all odds.
With his agility, skill, and size combination, Fotsis is surely one of the best NBA players from overseas.
Achievements/Resumé:
- No Awards Received As Of Yet
Kurt Rambis
NBA Ranking: #1020
Kurt, not just a former professional basketball player, but a coach.
In college basketball, he was named player of the year, and his career began with the New York Knicks before he moved to the Lakers.
Before moving to the Lakers, he helped Greece win the Greek League title in one season while playing under the name Kyriakos Rambidis.
His one year in Greece saw him return triumphantly to the NBA and play four seasons while also winning four NBA championships with the Lakers.
He also played for various teams, such as the Sacramento Kings, Phoenix Suns, and Charlotte Hornets. During this time, he averaged 5.6 rebounds and 5.2 points per game, which was his best career before Antetokounmpo arrived in the NBA.
Now a coach, he has led teams such as the Knicks, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Lakers.
Achievements/Resumé:
- 4× NBA Champion
Vassilis Spanoulis
NBA Ranking: #3692
Famous for his clutch play and skill as a point guard, Vassilis Spanoulis during his career made his mark on the NBA and European stages.
With his ability to thrive under pressure, he could organize important match-winning plays and smoothly change from an orchestrator to a scorer when he is needed.
Truly among the top Greek NBA players of all time!
Spanoulis had an incredible court command, and his performances were nothing short of legendary, solidifying his status as one of Greece’s top talented players.
Achievements/Resumé:
- No Awards Received As Of Yet
Conclusion
Without mincing words, Greek players have left their marks on both the NBA and global basketball history.
From Giannis Antetokounmpo’s continued dominance of stats to those of legends such as Kurt Rambis and Nick Calathes, their impact as Greek basketball players in the NBA is indelible.
These players’ passion for the game and unique skills have turned the focus on Greek and international basketballers, inspiring a younger generation and showing that Greeks have all it takes to leave a lasting legacy even in basketball.
FAQs
Who is the Greek freak in basketball?
Giannis Antetokounmpo, a pro Greek basketballer playing for the Milwaukee Bucks of the NBA, is known as the Greek freak basketball player. This name is recognized for its strength, speed, and exceptional size.
What former NBA player played in Greece?
Many former NBA players have played in Greece. Some examples include Dominique Wilkin, Bryan Scott, Antonio Davis, and Josh Childress.
How many Greeks are in the NBA?
Greek doesn’t have many players who have been selected into the NBA. Statistics show that 19 Greek players have entered the NBA, with 2021 being the most recent.
