One NBA MVP candidate won't be going into the season wholly focused on basketball.
Two days before the Bucks preseason opener, the team announced superstar forward Giannis Antetokounmpo's father Charles died Friday at the age of 54.
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According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Charles, a native Nigerian and former professional soccer player who later moved his family to Greece, suffered a heart attack in his Wisconsin home. He also leaves behind wife Veronica and former Knick Thanasis, Dayton freshman Kostas and a budding high school prospect among his five children. Giannis is coming off his finest season as a pro, having averaged 22.9 points, 8.8 rebounds and 5.4 assists to lead the Bucks to the playoffs while being named the league's Most Improved Player.
The Bucks kickoff their 2017-18 preseason slate Monday in Dallas. The team released the following statement after learning of Charles' death:
The Bucks family is heartbroken about the sudden death of Giannis' father, Charles. The entire organization, his teammates and coaches are here to support Giannis and his family during this incredibly difficult time. Charles was a big part of the Bucks and will be terribly missed by us all. On behalf of ownership, we express our utmost condolences and offer our prayers to Giannis and his family.