Giannis Antetokounmpo and Mariah Riddlesprigger celebrate son's birthday amid Greece team dispute
In Athens, Greece,
Giannis Antetokounmpo
's family had a quiet little celebration. His wife, Mariah Riddlesprigger, posted a heartfelt message. Their son, Maverick Shai, turned four. But it wasn't all happy moments.
Giannis was getting ready for EuroBasket 2025.
At the same time, his NBA team, the Milwaukee Bucks, was in a clash with the Greek federation. The family is caught between joy and worry.
Mariah Riddlesprigger's special message for
Maverick Shai Antetokounmpo
On August 18, Mariah Riddlesprigger shared a loving birthday message and family photos on Instagram from Athens. Maverick, her second child with Giannis Antetokounmpo, turned four. She wrote,
'I pray that you continue asking questions, pushing boundaries, loving hard and driving me insane because these moments are short and I love every ounce of your craziness! To the best brother and mama's boy, we love you dearly! Happy 4th Birthday to my little best friend!'
Mariah and Giannis have four children: Liam, Maverick, Eva, and Aria.
All of them are with their parents in Greece, supporting Giannis during practice. The photos Mariah posted showed Maverick with both parents, on vacation and playing basketball. The moment was warm and real. Mariah's words gave people a peek into their lives away from basketball games and busy schedules. Even when there is tension and big decisions, special family moments shine through.
Giannis Antetokounmpo's EuroBasket 2025 challenge with the Milwaukee Bucks
Giannis Antetokounmpo had a serious issue off the court, even as the family celebrated.
The Greek national basketball team hoped Giannis would compete in the EuroBasket 2025 event. On August 20, the team will compete against Latvia, and then they will have to take on France and Italy. Greece needs Giannis for these big games.
But his NBA team, the Milwaukee Bucks, slowed things down. Giannis's contract is huge, $54million per year. FIBA only offers limited insurance in case a player gets injured. The Bucks wanted more protection before letting him play for Greece.
They waited for a written agreement from the Greek federation. This insurance dispute left Giannis stuck. He practiced with the team but could not play in exhibition matches until the paperwork was ready.
Recently, Bucks officials agreed to let Giannis play, but only after tough talks. On August 16, Coach Vassilis Spanoulis said Giannis could finally join team activities. Basketball fans hope to see him play on August 20 at the Acropolis Tournament.
Greece last won a medal at EuroBasket back in 2009. The national team needs Giannis to boost their chances this year.
Also Read:
Shaquille O'Neal shares raw moment with the former Dallas Mavericks giant Shawn Bradley
So, while the Antetokounmpo family celebrated Maverick's birthday, Giannis waited for the final go-ahead. With support from Mariah and his kids, he stayed focused on family and sport, in Athens at a time that mattered for both.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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