Presently, the Antetokounmpo family is among the most well-known in the globe. While the brothers have made such an impact in the world of sports that some often refer to them as “Greek gods,” their path to fame was not always smooth.

Everything began in 1991 when Charles and Veronica Adetokunbo, unable to secure good employment in Nigeria, relocated from Lagos to Greece in pursuit of greener pastures. Francis, the eldest son of the Adetokunbos, was abandoned in Lagos with his grandparents for upbringing.

In pursuit of improved living conditions, Charles and Veronica relocated to a small community in Athens, where Charles secured employment as a handyman and Veronica assumed the role of a babysitter. They welcomed four additional children. Alex, Thanasis, Giannis, and Kostas were all natives of Greece.

“Antetokounmpo” is the present Greek transliteration of their surname; if pronounced in Greek, the name would continue to sound like Adetokunbo. After receiving their Greek passports in 2015, they adapted their names to the Greek orthography.

Both Charles and Veronica had athletic backgrounds. Prior to departing Nigeria, Charles played professional football, which he adored, while Veronica was passionate about high jumping. Their children were exposed to sports at a young age.

Although their four children were raised in Greece, Veronica ensured that they maintained ties to their Nigerian heritage. As stated in an interview, Giannis

 

“…I attended school and was born in Greece.” But when I return home at the end of the day, Greek culture no longer exists. Simply put, it is Nigerian culture. It is concerning one’s morals, respect for one’s elders, and discipline.”

 

Employment was difficult for Charles and Veronica due to their immigration status and the fact that they were the only black people in their community. Frequently, the children were required to sell water and hats in order to earn money for sustenance.

 

Charles passed away in 2017 at the age of 54 due to a myocardial infarction.