AFCON 2025
Greek NBA star, Giannis Antetokounmpo is fully immersing himself in the role of a foreign tourist during his visit to Brazil, exploring iconic landmarks and experiencing the country’s rich cultural traditions.
On Sunday night, the two-time NBA Most Valuable Player (2019, 2020) visited the renowned samba school Unidos do Viradouro in Niterói, the city neighboring Rio de Janeiro.
Joined by his mother Veronica, his brothers, and a group of close friends, the Milwaukee Bucks forward tried his hand at samba dancing on the school’s court.
While his samba moves didn’t quite match his dominance on the basketball court, Giannis clearly enjoyed the lively atmosphere and warm welcome.
Earlier on Monday, Antetokounmpo continued his sightseeing with a visit to Christ the Redeemer, one of Rio’s most iconic landmarks.
Despite the rainy and cold weather, which obscured the view, Giannis seemed in good spirits. He was accompanied on the visit by right-back Rodinei, a former Flamengo player who now plays for Olympiacos in Greece.
On Sunday, the basketball star also attended the Women’s Volleyball Nations League match between Brazil and Italy at Maracanãzinho in Rio de Janeiro.
Cheering enthusiastically from the sidelines, Giannis showed strong support for the Brazilian team. However, despite his encouragement, Brazil fell to Italy in straight sets (3–0).
Antetokounmpo’s visit to Brazil is not only about leisure and entertainment. On Monday, he took part in the inauguration of a public basketball court in Rio de Janeiro, highlighting his commitment to community engagement and the global promotion of the sport.
His Brazilian tour continues on Tuesday, when he is set to attend a 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier between Brazil and Paraguay at the Neo Química Arena in São Paulo, home of Corinthians FC.
Giannis’ offseason visit comes after his Milwaukee Bucks were eliminated by the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Playoffs of the 2024–25 NBA season.
