When NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo moved to the U.S. from Greece, he relied on WhatsApp to keep in contact with his family and friends back home.

"It allowed me to connect with them, and it was a very big part of my life," Antetokounmpo said.

During the All-Star game in Cleveland, the NBA All-Star Game MVP announced that he would be the new global face of WhatsApp. It's the company's first-ever brand ambassador.

Due to his association with the company, the Milwaukee Bucks star says he was able to accept the opportunity to become its new brand ambassador.

During the All-Star Game, Antetokounmpo wore a custom-made hoodie made by Post Imperial, which featured Nigeria's call code 234 referring to his hometown.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Giannis Antetokounmpo (@giannis_an34)

"Those who know my story know that I'm Greek and Nigerian: I was raised in Greece, but my roots are Nigerian. Growing up, the best way I could connect to my family in Nigeria was through WhatsApp," said Antetokounmpo.

As an athlete and a person, Antetokounmpo is constantly learning about his roots and upbringing.

"As humans, we're a collection of experiences, and learning about where I came from has kept me close to my identity as I continue to evolve as an athlete and person," the NBA star said.

Antetokounmpo and endorsements
When he moved to the U.S., Antetokounmpo was surprised to learn how few of his teammates even heard of WhatsApp. He said it was great to see the app grow in the country, and he plans on helping it continue to expand.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by WhatsApp (@whatsapp)

Not only is he a passionate basketball player, but he also has deals with various companies such as Nike and JBL. When he chooses a brand partner, Antetokounmpo goes through a simple evaluation process that asks for feedback on how well he likes the product and how much he would like to give it his time.

"When I have an opportunity for an endorsement, I have to make sure I really enjoy doing it, and it makes sense," Antetokounmpo noted.

Moreover, when it comes to working with a brand, the 6-foot-11 forward said he wants to make sure that his involvement is as authentic as possible.

"Time is very important. I have my family, and I need the time to dedicate to be great at what I do, which is basketball. When I get myself involved with a brand partnership, it has to be as authentic as possible, and I let them know I'm not here to just say some nonsense in interviews or whatever. It has to be an authentic fit," said Antetokounmpo.