Giannis Antetokounmpo is coming off his second consecutive NBA MVP award. The Milwaukee Bucks star had put together multiple impressive seasons during the last few years. There’s no question that he’s one of the best players in the NBA.
Recently, one of his rookie cards sold for an astronomical number that set a new record.
Giannis Antetokounmpo putting together an impressive 2019-20 season
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After winning his first MVP award in 2019, Antetokounmpo was determined to have another successful season, and he did just that. Antetokounmpo led the Milwaukee Bucks to the best record in the league for the second consecutive season. He was a popular name in the NBA, and he was a fan favorite not only in Milwaukee but across the world. When you watch highlights from the 2019-20 season, you’ll see how much Antetokounmpo dominated on the court.
Whether he was on offense or defense, he showed how much value he had on the court. With his size and length, defenders have a tough time staying in front of him. When he’s on the fast break, he gets to the rim almost every time using those long strides. Throughout his career, Antetokounmpo has put on muscle and has become more physical in the paint. With LeBron James out of the Eastern Conference, Antetokounmpo took the reign as the east’s best player.
At the end of the 2019-20 season, Antetokounmpo finished with an all-time record for single-season NBA Player Efficiency Rating with 31.87. Per Basketball-Reference, he surpassed the previous record held by Wilt Chamberlain of 31.82. Even though the Bucks failed to reach the Eastern Conference Finals, that doesn’t take away from the impressive season that Antetokounmpo put together for the second consecutive season.
Giannis Antetokounmpo had to adjust in his rookie season
When Antetokounmpo entered the league in 2013, he had to get adjusted to the NBA’s style and pace. He entered the league at 18, appearing in 77 games and starting 23 of them. In his first season, he averaged 6.8 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists. He scored in double figures 23 times and grabbed 10 plus rebounds twice. Antetokounmpo led all rookies in blocks with 61.
He displayed his talents and athleticism during his rookie season, and he just needed more experience in the league. Antetokounmpo was not the dominant player he is today during his rookie season. You will see a tremendous change from his rookie season to now. That shows how much work he’s put in and how much he’s matured.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s rookie card selling for a large amount
One of Antetokounmpo’s autographed patched rookie cards sold for a record-breaking $1.812 million at an auction on Sep. 20, according to Darren Rovell. The card was up for bid on the Goldin Auctions website, and according to TMZ Sports, Goldin Auctions founder Ken Goldin said he anticipated the card possibly reaching the $2 million mark at auction.
Antetokounmpo’s rookie card broke the record, which was previously set by a LeBron James rookie card, which was purchased at $1.8 million. It’s obvious that certain sports cards have value to them, especially if that athlete goes on to have success during their careers. Antetokounmpo was trying to establish himself as a rookie, and now he’s a two-time NBA MVP award winner, and his rookie card just sold for a lot of money. It doesn’t get much better than that.
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