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:
