Ranking the top 100 NBA players — 2. Giannis Antetokounmpo
Let’s go down the list. Giannis Antetokounmpo is now a two-time MVP, a champion and Finals MVP, a Defensive Player of the Year, and a five-time All-Star. He could retire tomorrow and expect a first ballot Hall of Fame induction. He is a defining player of the new generation, and a true two-way megastar.
Last season was no different for Antetokounmpo as far as his dominance goes. The Bucks were only the No. 3 seed, but that can be chalked up to a period of adjustment after Mike Budenholzer and the front office belatedly spiced things up. By the time the playoffs rolled around, Milwaukee was clearly ready to go. So was Antetokounmpo, who silenced any lingering doubts about his ability to perform on the biggest stage. His 50-point Game 6 against Phoenix was the stuff of legend.
Antetokounmpo is one of the few players who can live on bully ball in the modern age. He’s genuinely unrivaled as an athlete. He’s a 7-footer whose physical profile lies somewhere between Mr. Fantastic and a battering ram. Giannis can overwhelm just about anyone at the rim, and he’s a brilliant passer once he gets moving downhill. No one needs fewer steps to go from halfcourt to the rim.
For the season, Giannis averaged 28.1 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 5.9 assists on .569/.303/.685 shooting splits. He also made first team All-Defense. It can’t be stressed that Giannis is probably a top-3 offensive player and a top-3 defensive player. He’s a top-3 player. It’s that simple. The man is unstoppable