By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Miami Heat are returning to the NBA’s prestigious Christmas Day lineup, and their newly acquired superstar, Giannis Antetokounmpo, could not be more thrilled about the holiday showcase. The former champion and two-time Most Valuable Player shared his excitement during a media session on Tuesday, following the league’s official schedule release.
“That’s going to be fun. I haven’t played on Christmas for a while now. NBA, c’mon now,” he reflected on his return to the marquee December 25 slot.
The Athens native expressed his enthusiasm for performing on such a grand stage.
“I’m just excited to give fans a little bit of excitement on Christmas Day,” he continued. “I also enjoy being at home with my kids during Christmas, but there’s nothing better than a little kid opening his gift and then turning on the TV watching NBA games. So, I’m excited for that. We’re gonna put on a show. I’m going to get a win too.”
The Greek Freak is no stranger to the holiday spotlight, having previously anchored several memorable Christmas matchups during his 13-year tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks.
He debuted in 2018 with a dominant 31-point, 14-rebound performance in a win over the New York Knicks. After sitting out or navigating tough team losses in subsequent holiday appearances, including a 32-point effort in a 2023 loss to New York, Antetokounmpo completely missed the last two holiday editions. Now wearing a Miami uniform following his blockbuster summer trade, he is set to face a familiar holiday rival, the Boston Celtics.
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