Since they weren’t Greek citizens, Giannis was not allowed to play in Greece’s top-most division.
Instead, the then-18-year-old had to suit up for Filathlitikos AO, a Division II team in Greece. During the 2012-2013 season, despite being the youngest player on the roster, Antetokounmpo had a terrific year.
Playing 22.5 minutes per game, he averaged 9.5 points, 5 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1 block per game while shooting at an efficient 46.4% from the field and 72% from the charity stripe.
At one point in that season, Filathlitikos played against Nea Kifisia in a crucial game. This tie would determine which of the two would be promoted to the top Greek division.
In an important clash, in front of several NBA scouts, the 18-year-old ended up scoring merely 4 points as his team faced an 89-81 double overtime loss.
In less than two months, the Milwaukee Bucks picked Giannis with their 15th pick in the 2013 draft… And the rest is history.