Greek Freak Analyzed

Tag: marketing

  • Giannis’ dunk, misinformation. No he was not the best

    Giannis’ dunk, misinformation. No he was not the best

    LeBron James scored 100% of his dunks last season. As he did the previous season. That shows something about his IQ on the court and his selection of moves. It shows he has bag and can turn to other ways of scoring or passing.

    Giannis? Sure he made the most dunk attempts in the NBA again. But as usual he hovers at 95%. Is that good? Well, some call it elite. I call it catastrophic.

    SeasonDunk AttemptsDunks MadeDunks MissedDunk %
    2022–232352231294.9%

    It also shows zero progress. Because Giannis is not adding to his tools, he is just doing the same thing again and again. And it’s working less and less. Sure he gets away with it in regular season games. Or when the opponents defence makes a mistake. But it is killing his team’s ball flow. His selfish attempts for stat padding show lack of bag and lack of understanding. The Bucks can’t develop like this.

    PlayerDunk AttemptsDunks MadeDunk %
    Giannis26425195.1%

    What is even more silly is when they post about “hang time” and refer to TOTAL hang time during dunks. Since Giannis made the most dunk attempts it makes sense that in TOTAL he was in the air more than others. But when you divide the total air time by the number of dunks he is actually at the bottom of the “hangtime” rankings, ie he is in the air less. Unspectacular. This is a player that has been in the NBA for more than a decade surrounded by players that were brought on the team to help him score and he still does stuff like this.

  • The Small Market Sweetheart Narrative: OKC doing what the Bucks did.

    The Small Market Sweetheart Narrative: OKC doing what the Bucks did.

    The confetti has fallen, the champagne is (finally) dry in Oklahoma City, and the Thunder are the 2025 NBA champions! It’s a fantastic story for a young, exciting team led by the brilliant Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. But as we celebrate their triumph, a familiar whisper has grown into a discernible hum among basketball fans: Does this victory, much like the Milwaukee Bucks’ championship in 2021, expose a league agenda to push small-market teams into the spotlight?

    The Thunder’s Ascent: A Fairytale or a Script?

    The Oklahoma City Thunder’s journey to the 2025 NBA title is undeniably compelling on the surface. A meticulously constructed roster through smart drafting, patient development, and shrewd trades has blossomed into a legitimate powerhouse. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP-caliber season, coupled with the emergence of young stars like Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams, created a dynamic and entertaining team that captured the imagination of many. They finished with a league-best 68 wins and battled through a tough playoff bracket, ultimately defeating the Indiana Pacers in a thrilling seven-game Finals.

    However, a closer look at their Finals opponent, the Indiana Pacers, and the narrative surrounding the series, has led some to draw parallels with the 2021 Bucks’ run. The Pacers, another relatively small-market team, made a surprising charge to the Finals. The series itself was highly competitive, but the unfortunate injury to Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton in Game 7 certainly altered the landscape. While no one wishes injury on a player, it undeniably removed a significant obstacle for the Thunder.

    This is where the conspiracy theories begin to swirl. The idea isn’t that the NBA actively caused Haliburton’s injury, but rather that certain circumstances or officiating tendencies might subtly favor the desired narrative of a small-market triumph.

    The Bucks’ 2021 Title: A Precedent?

    Rewind to 2021. (Here a detailed run through of all the “lucky” moments.) The Milwaukee Bucks broke a 50-year championship drought, defeating the Phoenix Suns in the Finals. At the time, many hailed it as a victory for small-market teams, a testament to building through the draft and developing homegrown talent. It was a refreshing change from the “super team” era that had dominated the league for years.

    But even then, some raised eyebrows. Critics pointed to questionable foul calls in key moments, particularly in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Brooklyn Nets, where a hobbled Kevin Durant pushed the Bucks to the brink. The narrative of “the league wanting a small market to win” gained traction. The idea was that the NBA, conscious of criticisms about parity and the dominance of major market franchises, was subtly steering the ship towards a more feel-good story.

    The “Small Market” Agenda: Why Would the NBA Do It?

    The core of this theory rests on the idea of the NBA’s desire for compelling storylines and, ultimately, increased viewership and engagement. While big markets like Los Angeles and New York always draw attention, a truly organic, underdog success story from a smaller market can resonate deeply with fans across the league. It creates hope for other smaller teams and diversifies the championship landscape, potentially broadening the NBA’s appeal.

    Consider these points often cited by proponents of the theory:

    • Narrative Control: The NBA is a business, and compelling narratives drive interest. A Cinderella story from a small market can be more captivating than another championship for an established powerhouse.
    • Parity Illusion: Promoting small-market champions can create an illusion of parity, even if underlying systemic issues (like free agency advantages for big markets) persist.
    • Player Retention: A successful small-market team might encourage stars to stay with their drafting team rather than always seeking out major markets, which could be beneficial for the league’s overall competitive balance.
    • Refereeing Nuances: This is often the most controversial aspect. Proponents suggest that subconscious biases, or even subtle directives, might lead to more favorable whistle-blowing for the “desired” outcome, particularly in tightly contested games or pivotal moments. Again, this isn’t about outright rigging, but rather an accumulation of small, borderline calls that tip the scales.

    Is It a Conspiracy, or Just Good Storytelling?

    Ultimately, it’s incredibly difficult to prove or disprove a “league agenda.” The NBA is a complex ecosystem, and every championship team faces its share of favorable and unfavorable bounces. The Oklahoma City Thunder’s inspiring championship run undoubtedly provides excellent fodder for the “small market sweetheart” narrative just as the Bucks’ run did. The NBA, like any major sports league, thrives on drama, compelling stories, and fan engagement. Whether that translates into active manipulation or simply a greater appreciation for the organic rise of a team like the Thunder is a question that will likely remain debated in sports bars and online forums for years to come.

    For sure it puts many of us off though.

  • Does Giannis use an iPhone or a Google pixel?

    Does Giannis use an iPhone or a Google pixel?

    Giannis Antetokounmpo has been associated with both iPhone and Google Pixel devices. He has expressed disappointment with Apple on X, suggesting he uses or has used an iPhone, and mentioned his kids hacked his iPhone to post tweets. However, he’s also known for using a Google Pixel, notably during the Slam Dunk Contest in 2023, and is a paid promoter for the Pixel as the “face” of the Pixel 6, the NBA’s official fan phone.

    It’s likely he uses both, possibly an iPhone personally and a Pixel for professional endorsements when he has to. And this really isn’t a good look after accepting money to promote Pixel phones.

    Giannis Antetokounmpo’s endorsement of Google Pixel phones is a notable part of his off-court portfolio, primarily tied to his role as a prominent NBA star and marketable athlete. Here’s what is known about his involvement with Google Pixel:

    1. Official Endorsement Role: Giannis has been a paid promoter for Google Pixel, specifically highlighted as the “face” of the Google Pixel 6, which was designated as the NBA’s official fan phone. This partnership aligns with his high-profile status, as the two-time NBA MVP and Milwaukee Bucks star brings significant visibility to the brand.
    2. Public Appearances and Campaigns:
    • During the 2023 NBA All-Star Weekend’s Slam Dunk Contest, Giannis was seen using a Google Pixel phone, which was noted in media coverage. This was likely a deliberate part of his endorsement deal to showcase the device in a high-visibility setting.
    • Google has leveraged Giannis in marketing campaigns, emphasizing the Pixel’s camera capabilities and user-friendly features. For example, posts on X have referenced Google Pixel’s “Giannis Antetokounmpo Mode,” a promotional term tied to his dynamic personality and on-court energy, though this appears to be more of a marketing gimmick than a specific phone feature.
    1. Contractual Details: While specific financial terms of his endorsement deal are not publicly disclosed, it’s standard for athletes of Giannis’s caliber to command multi-million-dollar contracts for such partnerships. His role likely includes social media promotion, appearances in commercials, and product placement during NBA-related events. The Pixel 6 campaign, in particular, was a significant push by Google to compete with Apple’s iPhone in the smartphone market.
    2. Context Within His Endorsement Portfolio: Giannis’s Pixel endorsement is one of several high-profile deals. He also has partnerships with Nike (his signature “Freak” shoe line), Tissot, Hulu, and WhatsApp, among others. The Google Pixel deal complements his tech-related endorsements, positioning him as a relatable yet aspirational figure for tech consumers.
    3. Public Perception and X Activity:
    • Some social media posts have speculated about the authenticity of Giannis’s Pixel use, given his occasional criticism of Apple and mentions of using an iPhone (e.g., his kids hacking his iPhone to post tweets). This suggests he may use both devices, with Pixel being a professional obligation rather than his exclusive personal choice.
    • Fans and commentators on social media have noted his Pixel promotion with mixed reactions, some praising the phone’s features (like its camera) and others joking about the endorsement as a “paycheck” gig.
    1. Timeline and Continuity: The Pixel 6 campaign was prominent around 2021–2022, but there’s no clear evidence from recent sources (up to May 2025) indicating whether Giannis’s endorsement deal has been renewed for newer Pixel models (e.g., Pixel 8 or 9). His visibility with the brand seems to have peaked during the Pixel 6 era, though he may still be under contract for ongoing or less prominent promotions.

    Giannis’s endorsement of Google Pixel phones centres on his role as a key ambassador for the Pixel 6 and its NBA partnership, involving public appearances, marketing campaigns, and social media promotion. While he’s likely compensated handsomely, his personal use of an iPhone suggests the Pixel endorsement is primarily professional. Some would say it is hypocritical and wonder why Google would even put up with it. It’s pretty bad for a brand ambassador to not genuinely use the product because it undermines authenticity, which is critical for trust and credibility. If the ambassador doesn’t use the product, their endorsement feels hollow or deceptive, risking consumer scepticism or backlash. Audiences can often sense inauthenticity, especially on social media, where users quickly call out inconsistencies. This can damage the brand’s reputation and erode customer loyalty. Plus, an ambassador who uses the product can provide real insights and relatable experiences, making their promotion more compelling and effective. Instead Giannis just looks like he did a cash grab with Google. He also looks stupid for writing stuff like this about his iPhone.

    Apple has completely disappointed me. @Apple

    (Giannis tweet)

    Overall he doesn’t seem like a good brand ambassador! His iPhone use could dilute the Pixel’s “exclusivity” for some fans. Many posts joking about his dual usage (e.g., calling his Pixel endorsement a “paycheck” gig) spark scepticism about both his ability as a brand ambassador and his honesty. It’s almost as bad as using your baby daughter to make money selling nappies…

    ( In any case the Google case study is interesting and worth a read even if it now seems pretty hollow and fake as he uses iPhones. )

  • Why Bucks Fans Need to Temper Their Championship Hopes with Giannis

    Why Bucks Fans Need to Temper Their Championship Hopes with Giannis

    Milwaukee Bucks fans have been riding high on the Giannis Antetokounmpo wave for years, and it’s easy to see why. The Greek Freak is an athletic marvel who can dominate regular-season games with powerful dunks and stat lines that make MVP voters drool. Two MVP awards, a Defensive Player of the Year trophy, and a 2021 championship ring have cemented his status as a superstar. But here’s the cold, hard truth Bucks fans don’t want to hear: Giannis has never proven he can sustain elite performance in the playoffs over the long haul, and banking on him to deliver another title might just be a pipe dream. His stats have been steadily getting worse in almost every category since 2021 when it counts and the delusional fans choose to only look at the easy game stat line instead.

    Let’s start with the obvious: Giannis is a regular-season monster. His ability to bulldoze through defenders and rack up points in the paint is unmatched. But the playoffs? That’s a different beast. The postseason exposes weaknesses that regular-season stat-padding can mask, and for Giannis, those flaws have popped up time and again. His lack of a reliable jump shot, predictable offensive game, and struggles at the free-throw line have been exploited by smart teams who know how to game-plan against him. Bucks fans love to point to the 2021 title as proof of his greatness, but let’s not kid ourselves—that run had as much to do with luck and circumstance as it did with Giannis turning into some playoff juggernaut. Giannis sinks a three and they all start saying “ooooh, if he adds that to his toolset the league is screwed!” Only he doesn’t. Then in a run of easy games he scores a few mid range shots and again “oooooh, if Giannis gets a jumper that’s the end of the NBA!” Only he doesn’t.

    Take a closer look at that 2021 championship. The Bucks faced a hobbled Nets team in the second round, with Kyrie Irving injured and James Harden playing on one leg. In the Finals, they took down a gritty but outmatched Suns squad led by Chris Paul, who was 36 and running on fumes by that point. Giannis was phenomenal in the closeout game, dropping 50 points, including 17-of-19 from the free-throw line—a performance that’s more outlier than norm. Fans cling to that series like it’s the blueprint, but it’s the exception, not the rule. Before and since, Giannis’s playoff résumé is littered with disappointments that should give Milwaukee pause.

    Rewind to 2019. The Bucks were the No. 1 seed, Giannis was the MVP, and they got smoked by the Raptors in the Eastern Conference Finals, losing four straight after taking a 2-0 lead. Toronto built a wall in the paint, dared Giannis to shoot, and watched him flounder. Fast forward to 2020: the bubble. Milwaukee again had the best record in the East, and again, they choked—this time to the Heat in five games. Giannis averaged a pedestrian 21.8 points on 49% shooting, got shut down by Miami’s zone, and sprained his ankle, leaving the series early. It almost seems like he fakes injuries to avoid responsibility in the playoffs every time they get kicked out…. Even last year, 2024, with Damian Lillard on board, the Bucks bowed out in the first round to the Pacers. Giannis missed the series with a calf injury, sure, but his absence only underscored the team’s over-reliance on him—and his inability to stay on the floor when it matters most. Why? Because he consistently prefers to stat pad in easy regular season games, playing way too much in meaningless moments.

    The pattern is clear: Giannis thrives when the stakes are low and the defenses are vanilla. But in the playoffs, when teams have time to scheme and adjust, his limitations shine through. He’s a freight train with no brakes—devastating in a straight line, but easy to derail if you force him to change direction. His jumper remains a work in progress (career 28.6% from three and this season heading to the worse ever in NBA history), and his free-throw shooting is a liability that turns late-game situations into a coin toss (career 69.8%, dipping to 58.5% in the 2023 playoffs). Defences clog the paint, pack the lane, and live with him bricking shots from distance. Bucks fans scream about his heart and hustle, but heart doesn’t fix a broken offensive arsenal.

    And let’s talk about that supporting cast. The Bucks have tried to build around Giannis, but the results are shaky. Khris Middleton was a solid No. 2 when healthy, but injury-prone. Jrue Holiday was a perfect fit—until they traded him for Dame, whose defence is a downgrade and whose playoff clutch gene hasn’t exactly translated yet in Milwaukee because of the way Giannis plays mainly. The roster feels like a patchwork quilt, stitched together to mask Giannis’s flaws. Compare that to, say, the Celtics, who surround Jayson Tatum with shooters, defenders, and playmakers who complement his skill set. Milwaukee’s front office seems to think Giannis can will them to a title single-handedly, but the evidence says otherwise.

    Bucks fans might argue that Giannis is still young—30 isn’t old in today’s NBA—and that he’ll figure it out. But playoff success isn’t just about talent; it’s about adaptability, and Giannis hasn’t shown he can evolve when it counts. LeBron added a jumper. KD refined his off-ball game. Even Jokić, a plodding big man, developed a deadly midrange shot and passing wizardry to dissect playoff defenses. Giannis? He’s still slamming into walls, literally and figuratively, hoping raw power can overcome strategy. It worked once, but lightning doesn’t strike twice in the same spot often. The much hyped this season mid range is completely non existent in tougher regular season matchups so you can be sure it wont appear in the playoffs.

    The Eastern Conference isn’t getting any easier, either. Boston is a juggernaut. The Knicks are gritty and deep. Even younger teams like Cleveland and Orlando are on the rise. The Bucks’ window isn’t closed, but it’s creaking shut, and Giannis hasn’t proven he can carry them through that gauntlet with any consistency. Fans dreaming of another parade down Wisconsin Avenue are banking on a miracle—not a realistic assessment of their star’s postseason track record.

    So, Bucks faithful, enjoy the regular-season highlights. Cheer the dunks, the blocks, the MVP chants. Giannis is a freak show worth the price of admission. But a sustained playoff run to a championship? That’s a delusion built on one fluky title and a lot of wishful thinking. Until Giannis shows he can dominate when the lights are brightest—not just in spurts, but night after night against the best—Milwaukee’s hopes are more fantasy than destiny.