1. Work Ethic vs. Practice Habits
Giannis is renowned for his relentless work ethic, often sharing stories of his grind from a young immigrant in Greece to NBA stardom. He’s frequently praised for his dedication to improvement, whether it’s refining his jump shot or bulking up physically. However, critics have pointed to moments that seem to contradict this narrative.
In 2023, reports surfaced from Bucks practices where Giannis was described as occasionally disengaged or skipping drills, particularly during the regular season. Former teammate Jae Crowder, in a subtle comment during a podcast, alluded to Giannis “picking his spots” in practice, implying he didn’t always match the intensity he publicly champions. While this could be strategic load management for a grueling 82-game season, it contrasts with Giannis’s public mantra of “working harder than everyone else.” Critics argue that if he’s vocal about outworking opponents, any perceived lack of effort, even in practice, undermines that claim.
2. Humility vs. Public Boasts
Giannis often portrays himself as grounded, crediting his family and upbringing for keeping him humble. He’s avoided the flashy persona of some NBA stars, endearing him to fans. Yet, there have been moments where his comments veer into self-aggrandisement, which some see as clashing with his humble image.
A notable instance came during the 2021 NBA Finals post-game press conference after the Bucks’ championship win. Giannis remarked, “I didn’t take the easy way. I didn’t join a superteam,” a clear jab at players like Kevin Durant or LeBron James, who formed high-profile team-ups. While factually true—Giannis stayed with Milwaukee and won without a star-studded roster—the comment struck some as hypocritical. Critics noted that the Bucks had strategically built a strong supporting cast, including Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton, both All-Stars at points in their careers. Dismissing other players’ paths while ignoring his own team’s advantages seemed selective, especially for someone who claims to focus solely on his own journey. And of course he then went on to ask for Lillard, making it even more hypocritical!
3. Sportsmanship vs. On-Court Antics
Giannis is often lauded for his sportsmanship, but certain on-court behaviours have drawn scrutiny. His prolonged free-throw routines, which sometimes exceed the NBA’s 10-second rule, have frustrated opponents and fans alike. In a 2022 game against the Philadelphia 76ers, Joel Embiid publicly called out Giannis for taking upwards of 12 seconds per free throw, accusing him of bending the rules. Giannis responded by saying he’s “just playing within the game,” but critics argue that if he prides himself on integrity, exploiting a rule loophole undermines that.
Additionally, Giannis’s occasional trash-talking, while not excessive, has been seen as inconsistent with his “let my game speak” persona. In a 2024 playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, he engaged in heated exchanges with Tyrese Haliburton, later downplaying it as “just competition.” Yet, when younger players like Haliburton talk trash, Giannis has been quick to call them out, suggesting a double standard. Most importantly of course Haliburton beat him where it counts – in the playoffs.
4. Loyalty vs. Trade Rumours
Giannis has repeatedly expressed loyalty to Milwaukee, stating he’d rather stay and build a legacy than chase rings elsewhere. This stance has won over Bucks fans, especially in a small market. However, in 2023 and 2024, Giannis made cryptic comments about his future, saying he’d consider leaving if the Bucks couldn’t compete for titles. While understandable from a competitive standpoint, these remarks clashed with his earlier vows of unwavering commitment.
Some argue this is less hypocrisy and more pragmatism—an athlete hedging his bets. But for fans who bought into his “loyalty forever” narrative, the shift felt like a betrayal of his own words. Critics point out that Giannis wants the image of a loyal superstar but also the leverage to push management, a balancing act that can feel disingenuous.
The Bigger Picture: Athletes and Public Expectations
The hypocrisy debate around Giannis highlights a broader issue: the unrealistic expectations placed on athletes. Fans and media often demand consistency in behaviour, words, and values, ignoring the complexities of being a public figure. Giannis, like any person, can’t perfectly embody every trait he’s praised for—hard work, humility, sportsmanship, loyalty—at all times. What he does seem to lack is the intelligence in how he tries to cover up when he makes mistakes. In a different post for example I explained how his treatment of his children on social media makes no sense at all.
Is Giannis Antetokounmpo a hypocrite? The answer depends on how strictly you define the term. There are undeniable instances where his actions or words don’t fully align with his public persona, from practice habits to loyalty comments.
