Over the years, Giannis Antetokounmpo has steadily elevated his game. After averaging just 6.8 points per game as a rookie, he topped 22 points two seasons later. Since 2018-19, he has finished in the top four of MVP voting every year, capturing the award twice.
On his podcast, 7pm in Brooklyn, NBA Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony recently praised Antetokounmpo’s growth and eagerness to learn. “He took something from this person, that person, and put it all together,” Anthony said. “That’s what he really needs — the Melo. Let’s work.”
One area of Antetokounmpo’s game has long drawn criticism: his outside shooting. A career 28.4% 3-point shooter, the Milwaukee Bucks star is often left open beyond the arc as defenses look to limit his dominance in the paint. Anthony believes he can help sharpen that weakness.
The 2012-13 scoring champion would bring plenty of experience as a mentor. While Anthony was never considered an elite 3-point shooter, he carved out a Hall of Fame career with his mid-range game and reliable outside touch. He finished his career shooting 35.5% from 3 and more than 81% from the free-throw line — well above Antetokounmpo’s 69.3% mark at the stripe.
Giannis, who turns 31 this season, remains one of the NBA’s most dominant players. But if he develops a consistent jumper, it could extend his prime years and add a new layer of difficulty for opposing defenses.
For Anthony, helping Antetokounmpo refine that aspect of his game could be the next step in his post-playing career. And for Giannis, the addition of a steady jump shot would cement him as one of the most complete players in league history.